Macca targeting opening-day win
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald is pleased West Ham United have been handed a home game to
open the 2012/13 season
18.06.2012
Assistant manager Neil McDonald is hoping West Ham United can get off to a
winning start when they play host to Aston Villa on the opening day of the
season.
West Ham will kick-off their 2012/13 Premier League season with a game
against the Villains on 18 August, in what will be their new manager Paul
Lambert's first competitive game in charge. Macca believes that fact could
play into the hands of the Hammers during that game and their second fixture
away at Swansea City, who have just appointed Michael Laudrup as their new
manager.
"I think it's fantastic - ever since we beat Blackpool everyone has been
waiting for the fixtures to come through and when they come through it
becomes a reality," he said. "It's brilliant to have a home game first as
when you get promoted you're always looking for a home fixture first. "Villa
have got a new manager so hopefully they may still be trying to work out
what he wants and that will be the same perhaps for Swansea in our second
game. The managers may still be trying to bed in and get their ideas across
to the players and which way they want to play and what system they want to
play. "We've got to try and take advantage of that if we possibly can. It's
still a difficult start but we're happy we've avoided one of the top four."
The opening nine games look like they could provide West Ham with an
opportunity to get some points on the board following their Play-Off final
victory against Blackpool just under a month ago. The fixtures do appear to
look a little tougher going into November and December, however, so Macca is
all too aware that a strong start is needed. "It will be a tough start
without a shadow of a doubt but it's a good start. Looking to November and
December when we play the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United,
Spurs, Chelsea and Liverpool it will be very tough so I think we need a good
start and hopefully the first six games will give us a chance to get some
points on the board."
With Queens Park Rangers' arrival in the Premier League last season, the
Hammers will now have to contend with no less than ten London derbies at
home and away this season. The pick of those could be the Boxing Day visit
to Arsenal but Macca - whose family will be looking forward to one
north-east fixture on 10 November in particular - believes West Ham should
hold no fear following their successes on the road last season.
"Derbies can be difficult but we're experienced in dealing with them from
our time in the north-west, where there are a lot of local teams. It's
something that the
supporters will look forward to as they haven't got to travel too far. If we
play half as good away from home as we did last season then we'll be OK.
"For me personally, I started my career at Newcastle so it's always the
first one I look for if I'm back in the Premier League. Hopefully my Dad and
my brother will want to come to that and hopefully they'll be supporting
West Ham and not Newcastle!"
The confirmation of the Premier League fixtures just adds to McDonald's
desire to get back to the training pitches of Chadwell Heath and certainly
from his point of view, the afternoon of 18 August cannot come around
quickly enough. "You wake up on the 18 June first thing in the morning and
if you're a West Ham, Reading or Southampton supporter, that's all they'll
be talking about for the rest of the day. Who we have on Boxing Day, New
Year's Day or the last day and when our derbies are. I think it's brilliant
and great news for the fans. "It whets the appetite to get back and get
started. We've only had a shortish break but I imagine the lads will have
all seen the fixtures and they'll be ready and raring to go on 1 July. We'll
have plenty of time for preparation and plenty of time to get the boys fit
for the first game. We're really looking forward to getting started now."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Go on Olsson
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 18th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
Swedish international Jonas Olsson in being linked with a move to West Ham -
although there are conflicting reports elsewhere. Sky Sports report this
morning that West Ham will tie up a £4million deal for the West Brom centre
half upon his return from the European Championships. The Swedes have
nothing left to play for but pride having been knocked out of the tournament
by England last week. However reports in Sweden suggest that the
29-year-old, who is in the final year of his contract at the Hawthorns, is
on his way to Tottenham - as did the Daily Mirror last week. Born in 1983,
the defener has played in England since moving to West Brom in 2008 having
made an £800,000 switch from Dutch outfit NEC Nijmegen. He made his debut
against West Ham on 13th September in what was Gianfranco Zola's first game
since being announced as the successor to Alan Curbishley; West Ham going
down 3-2 on the day.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
2012/13 fixture list released
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 18th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham kick off the 2012/13 Premier League campaign with a home match
against Aston Villa. One of only two games in the first month of the new
season, Sam Allardyce's side follow that up with a trip to Swansea a week
later. At the other end of the season, the Hammers will be relatively
pleased to finish in May 2013 with fixtures against Newcastle (h), Everton
(a) and fellow promoted side Reading (h). The Boxing Day fixture - which has
seen West Ham pitted against the likes of Charlton and Portsmouth in recent
Prmeier League seasons - takes United across the City to the Emirates
Stadium where they face Arsenal.
Some other key dates to look out for are as follows:
Tottenham (home) 23rd February; (away) 24th November
Chelsea (home) 1st December; (away) 16th March
Arsenal (home) 6th October
Man Utd (home) 9th March
Please note that all fixtures are subject to change at the whim of the TV
companies.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers back with Villa
Upton Park opener for West Ham
Last Updated: June 18, 2012 9:14am
SSN
West Ham mark their return to the Premier League with an opening day home
clash against Aston Villa. The Hammers gained promotion through the
play-offs and will visit Swansea in their following match before their first
capital clash against Fulham on 1 September. Sam Allardyce's side host
champions Manchester City on 3 November before away clashes against
Tottenham and Manchester United later in the month. Boxing Day will see the
East Londoners travel to Arsenal and they end 2012 with an away clash
against Reading, while they face Norwich at home on New Year's Day. March
could be a difficult month for the Hammers as they must take on Stoke away
before matches against Man United and Chelsea. The Hammers will end the
season with May games against Newcastle and Everton before a final day clash
with Reading at Upton Park.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers close on Olsson
Premier League new-boys hoping to snap up defender after Euros
Last Updated: June 18, 2012 9:26am
SSN
Sky Sports sources understand West Ham are hoping to conclude the signing of
West Brom defender Jonas Olsson after Euro 2012. The centre-back, who has
been representing Sweden in Group D of the tournament opposite England,
France and Ukraine, is out of contract at The Hawthorns next summer. Olsson
has previously hinted he would be open to a new challenge away from the
Baggies, who recently appointed Steve Clarke as their new boss. Tottenham
were reported to be chasing his signature but it is uncertain whether he is
still a target following the sacking of manager Harry Redknapp. Aston Villa,
Fulham, Everton, and Turkish side Galatasaray have also been linked with the
stopper but it appears the Hammers could beat them to the punch . The
29-year-old, who joined the Baggies from NEC Nijmegen in 2008, has
previously said he will make a decision on his future after the Euros. West
Ham boss Sam Allardyce is keen to strengthen his options after guiding the
club back into the Premier League last season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Free agent Diame offered £7m to sign for Hammers
The Mirror
Allardyce wants the powerful ex-Wigan midfielder to add some beef to West
Ham's engine room as they return to the Premier League. West Ham boss Sam
Allardyce is ready to hand Senegalese midfielder Momo Diame a £7million,
three-year deal as he fights to win the race for his signature. Allardyce is
close to signing the former Wigan powerhouse, who is a free agent now his
Latics contract has expired - and open to offers after the collapse of a
move to Liverpool. Hammers are prepared to offer such a lucrative package
because they feel Diame will prove one of the best 'Bosmans' around if he
stays for the full length of the deal and helps the Premier League-bound
Londoners retain top flight status. If Diame accept and passes a medical, he
will add power to the newly-promoted club's engine room. The 25-year-old met
then-Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish to discuss a move to Anfield just days
before the Scot was sacked. With the Kop's new boss Brendan Rodgers
evidently not keen, Diame has been looking for a new home since, with
Sunderland and QPR also among his admirers.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam's trying a cheeky offer for Real Madrid's £7m striker Joselu
The Mirror
West Ham trying to wangle a cut-price deal with 'buy-back clause' for Spain
Under-21 star who caught Arsene Wenger's eye. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce
has made a cut-price offer for Real Madrid striker Joselu. Spain Under-21
international Joselu, 22, scored 26 goals for Real Madrid's B team last
season and they are considering letting him go out on loan or permanently
with a buy-back clause. West Ham have offered Real Madrid a buy back price
of £1.5m for next summer and £2m for 2013 which the Spanish giants have
rejected. Real Madrid are holding out for a £7m deal this summer and West
Ham only want to pay a fraction of that price with a buyback guarantee
inserted. Allardyce remains keen but it may come down to whether Real Madrid
agree to loan him out. Arsenal scouted the ex-Celta Vigo youngster last
season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, June 18
Daily WHUFC News - Fixtures 2012-2013
Hammers to kick-off against Villa
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will begin the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League season with
the visit of Aston Villa
18.06.2012
West Ham United will kick-off the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League season
with a home fixture against Aston Villa.
Having gained promotion in thrilling style via the npower Championship
Play-Offs at Wembley in May, Sam Allardyce's side will start the new
campaign by facing new manager Paul Lambert's side at the Boleyn Ground on
Saturday 18 August. The Hammers' first away game will follow with a trip to
Swansea City on Saturday 25 August before Fulham visit east London on
Saturday 1 September.
Big Sam's men will wrap up league matters on Sunday 19 May 2013, when they
tackle Reading at the Boleyn Ground, the sixth consecutive season West Ham
will be playing at home on the final day.
Newly-promoted West Ham take on reigning Barclays Premier League champions
Manchester City on Saturday 3 November (home) and Saturday 27 April (away),
while they face runners-up Manchester United on Tuesday 27 November (away)
and Saturday 9 March (home).
The mouth-watering London derby matches against Tottenham Hotspur will take
place on Saturday 24 November (away) and Saturday 23 February (home), while
Roberto Di Matteo's UEFA Champions League holders Chelsea will form the
opposition on Saturday 1 December (home) and Saturday 16 March (away).
Big Sam and captain Kevin Nolan will also be looking forward to tackling
their former club Newcastle United on Saturday 10 November (away) and
Saturday 4 May (home).
The traditional Christmas and New Year fixtures will see the Hammers face
Arsenal away on Boxing Day and Norwich City at home on New Year's Day.
West Ham are one of 13 Barclays Premier League clubs who will enter the
Capital One Cup at the second round stage, with ties scheduled to be played
in the week commencing Monday 27 August.
Full list of fixtures (all subject to change)
Sat 18 Aug Aston Villa H
Sat 25 Aug Swansea City A
Wed 29 Aug Capital One Cup Round 2
Sat 1 Sep Fulham H
Sat 15 Sep Norwich City A
Sat 22 Sep Sunderland H
Wed 26 Sep Capital One Cup Round 3
Sat 29 Sep Queens Park Rangers A
Sat 6 Oct Arsenal H
Sat 20 Oct Southampton H
Sat 27 Oct Wigan Athletic A
Wed 31 Oct Capital One Cup Round 4
Sat 3 Nov Manchester City H
Sat 10 Nov Newcastle United A
Sat 17 Nov Stoke City H
Sat 24 Nov Tottenham Hotspur A
Tue 27 Nov Manchester United A
Sat 1 Dec Chelsea H
Sat 8 Dec Liverpool H
Wed 12 Dec Capital One Cup Round 5
Sat 15 Dec West Bromwich Albion A
Sat 22 Dec Everton H
Wed 26 Dec Arsenal A
Sat 29 Dec Reading A
Tue 1 Jan Norwich City H
Sat 5 Jan F.A. Cup Round 3
Wed 9 Jan Capital One Cup Semi-Final (1)
Sat 12 Jan Sunderland A
Sat 19 Jan Queens Park Rangers H
Wed 23 Jan Capital One Cup Semi-Final (2)
Sat 26 Jan F.A. Cup Round 4
Wed 30 Jan Fulham A
Sat 2 Feb Swansea City H
Sat 9 Feb Aston Villa A
Sat 16 Feb F.A. Cup Round 5
Sat 23 Feb Tottenham Hotspur H
Sun 24 Feb Capital One Cup Final
Sat 2 Mar Stoke City A
Sat 9 Mar Manchester United H F.A. Cup Round 6
Sat 16 Mar Chelsea A
Sat 30 Mar West Bromwich Albion H
Sat 6 Apr Liverpool A
Sat 13 Apr Southampton A F.A. Cup Semi-Final
Sat 20 Apr Wigan Athletic H
Sat 27 Apr Manchester City A
Sat 4 May Newcastle United H
Sat 11 May F.A. Cup Final
Sun 12 May Everton A
Sun 19 May Reading H
If you cannot wait for the Barclays Premier League season to get under way,
then the Hammers will be playing a host of pre-season matches at home and
abroad. For a full list of the Club's pre-season fixtures, click here.
Hammers mobile text alert subscribers received this news first. Click here
to sign up so you can make sure you stay in touch wherever you are this
summer.
Check back on whufc.com later for all the reaction to the announcement of
the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League fixture list. Please note all fixtures
are subject to change.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will begin the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League season with
the visit of Aston Villa
18.06.2012
West Ham United will kick-off the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League season
with a home fixture against Aston Villa.
Having gained promotion in thrilling style via the npower Championship
Play-Offs at Wembley in May, Sam Allardyce's side will start the new
campaign by facing new manager Paul Lambert's side at the Boleyn Ground on
Saturday 18 August. The Hammers' first away game will follow with a trip to
Swansea City on Saturday 25 August before Fulham visit east London on
Saturday 1 September.
Big Sam's men will wrap up league matters on Sunday 19 May 2013, when they
tackle Reading at the Boleyn Ground, the sixth consecutive season West Ham
will be playing at home on the final day.
Newly-promoted West Ham take on reigning Barclays Premier League champions
Manchester City on Saturday 3 November (home) and Saturday 27 April (away),
while they face runners-up Manchester United on Tuesday 27 November (away)
and Saturday 9 March (home).
The mouth-watering London derby matches against Tottenham Hotspur will take
place on Saturday 24 November (away) and Saturday 23 February (home), while
Roberto Di Matteo's UEFA Champions League holders Chelsea will form the
opposition on Saturday 1 December (home) and Saturday 16 March (away).
Big Sam and captain Kevin Nolan will also be looking forward to tackling
their former club Newcastle United on Saturday 10 November (away) and
Saturday 4 May (home).
The traditional Christmas and New Year fixtures will see the Hammers face
Arsenal away on Boxing Day and Norwich City at home on New Year's Day.
West Ham are one of 13 Barclays Premier League clubs who will enter the
Capital One Cup at the second round stage, with ties scheduled to be played
in the week commencing Monday 27 August.
Full list of fixtures (all subject to change)
Sat 18 Aug Aston Villa H
Sat 25 Aug Swansea City A
Wed 29 Aug Capital One Cup Round 2
Sat 1 Sep Fulham H
Sat 15 Sep Norwich City A
Sat 22 Sep Sunderland H
Wed 26 Sep Capital One Cup Round 3
Sat 29 Sep Queens Park Rangers A
Sat 6 Oct Arsenal H
Sat 20 Oct Southampton H
Sat 27 Oct Wigan Athletic A
Wed 31 Oct Capital One Cup Round 4
Sat 3 Nov Manchester City H
Sat 10 Nov Newcastle United A
Sat 17 Nov Stoke City H
Sat 24 Nov Tottenham Hotspur A
Tue 27 Nov Manchester United A
Sat 1 Dec Chelsea H
Sat 8 Dec Liverpool H
Wed 12 Dec Capital One Cup Round 5
Sat 15 Dec West Bromwich Albion A
Sat 22 Dec Everton H
Wed 26 Dec Arsenal A
Sat 29 Dec Reading A
Tue 1 Jan Norwich City H
Sat 5 Jan F.A. Cup Round 3
Wed 9 Jan Capital One Cup Semi-Final (1)
Sat 12 Jan Sunderland A
Sat 19 Jan Queens Park Rangers H
Wed 23 Jan Capital One Cup Semi-Final (2)
Sat 26 Jan F.A. Cup Round 4
Wed 30 Jan Fulham A
Sat 2 Feb Swansea City H
Sat 9 Feb Aston Villa A
Sat 16 Feb F.A. Cup Round 5
Sat 23 Feb Tottenham Hotspur H
Sun 24 Feb Capital One Cup Final
Sat 2 Mar Stoke City A
Sat 9 Mar Manchester United H F.A. Cup Round 6
Sat 16 Mar Chelsea A
Sat 30 Mar West Bromwich Albion H
Sat 6 Apr Liverpool A
Sat 13 Apr Southampton A F.A. Cup Semi-Final
Sat 20 Apr Wigan Athletic H
Sat 27 Apr Manchester City A
Sat 4 May Newcastle United H
Sat 11 May F.A. Cup Final
Sun 12 May Everton A
Sun 19 May Reading H
If you cannot wait for the Barclays Premier League season to get under way,
then the Hammers will be playing a host of pre-season matches at home and
abroad. For a full list of the Club's pre-season fixtures, click here.
Hammers mobile text alert subscribers received this news first. Click here
to sign up so you can make sure you stay in touch wherever you are this
summer.
Check back on whufc.com later for all the reaction to the announcement of
the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League fixture list. Please note all fixtures
are subject to change.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Daily WHUFC News - 18th June 2012
War drums
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 17th June 2012
By: Haim Baram
Less than a month ago I returned to my hotel in Marble Arch to watch the Champions League final between Chelsea and Bayern Munich. A mere 10 minutes remained until the ultimate ugliness would emerge on the TV screen.
I expected a bad game and was certain that Chelsea would steal it somehow. We had already endured the horrendous agony during the semi-finals against the superior Barcelona, but in spite of my lofty ideals about pure football I was not over-duly anxious. The really important game had ended exactly two hours before and my heart was not free for negligible matters such as the European championship.
The beautiful rendering of our hymn 'Bubbles' was still ringing in my ears. 40,000 West Ham supporters had sung it hundreds of times at Wembley during the crucial tie versus Blackpool. I could hardly remember such happiness at the end of a football match. Within 90 minutes everything had been determined: we were promoted; Blackpool were doomed for yet another season in the Championship.
Exactly 48 years after I had seen Bobby Moore lifting our first FA Cup on the very same pitch I was geared to go berserk once again, celebrating with much younger fans; most of then had not even been born in 1964. Ricardo Vaz Te scored our winning goal three minutes before the final whistle, and the arguably superior Blackpool ran out of time. The die was cast, and millions of pounds will enrich our coffers by August.
When (the excellent) referee Howard Webb blew the final whistle we were all flooded with waves of wild victory celebrations, devoid of even a shred of hatred towards Blackpool. Our rivals played well enough, their supporters cheered them to the end and they were very fair after the game.
They dispersed quickly, embarked on their sad trip to their coastal town in Lancashire, expecting a mediocre tourist season, overshadowed by the Olympic Games in London and heavily affected by the dour economic situation all over Europe. Maybe they will get some crumbs from the Olympic tourists and some English visitors will stay there to escape the hectic season in the South-East.
Actually, they had anticipated the defeat, after losing the two league matches against the Hammers and trailing behind us in the Championship table by 11 points. But at Wembley they were excellent, hence their noble heartbreak at the end. I could sympathize with them up to a certain point: in such fateful games even declared bleeding-hearts like me are primarily influenced by primordial instincts, devoid of any rational explanations.
It took a great deal of contemplation on the over-populated Bakerloo Line train back to my hotel to reach the sober and modest self-assessment of my behaviour during the celebrations at Wembley: despite all the seemingly sophisticated rhetoric I am actually a tribal, primitive person and therefore find it hard to reconcile reasoning and fine values with the boiling blood, the tears and the remnants of my basic ambivalence.
To be quite truthful, Big Sam's football is not my ideal, and this is an extreme understatement. Perhaps Allardyce is not an ideologically defence-oriented manager, but the style of his teams is reminiscent of the 1950s in England. The ball floats in the air most of the time and we had all been educated by Ron Greenwood to cherish highly skilful and beautiful football, personified by Bobby Moore, Trevor Brooking and Alan Devonshire.
The fans complained during the season about Big Sam's style: his WHU was very strong and physical but lacked finesse and we lost several vital points in our home games at Upton Park. The manager was frequently taunted, grumbled a lot about the scant credit he had received from the fans, despite their (justified) reputation as the most devoted and loyal in English football.
To be quite truthful I composed several anti-Allardyce comments myself, and they were published on KUMB. I even 'sent' the manager to work for the RAF as the ball is in the air most of the time. The professional verdict on Allardyce is not exactly flattering: we (just) missed automatic promotion with a bunch of players that are good enough to secure mid-table spot in the Premier League.
But the dramatic finale at Wembley has erased everything. In our collective memory, it will be forever etched as one of the greatest moments in the history of the club.
And how do I determine my own judgment? Personally I also love Barcelona with all my heart, not only politically and ideologically but also aesthetically. What have I got to do with Allardyce's football, except a tradition lasting more than four decades and profound feelings for West Ham?
If I had to wipe out real tears when our captain Kevin Nolan (not necessarily my favourite footballer) led his mates to a spontaneous and endearingly unruly victory run around the stadium, amid touching scenes of authentic merriment in the stands, the sentiment inside me is very deep. Football has caused me much happiness over the years, even if I mostly preferred the under-achievers (with the possible exception of Barcelona). If I examine our obvious shortcomings too closely, it will be tantamount to a man in love who scrutinizes his lover not with a naked eye, but through x-rays. It can be dangerous, even malignant and certainly is bound to destroy any real joy.
During the game itself and over the half-time break I sort of befriended a nice family from Essex, a bastion of ex-EastEnders and staunch West Ham supporters. The head of the family, a relatively elderly man was flanked by two of his daughters and his son-in-law. They seemed to be familiar with our history and I thought that this man, my immediate neighbour at Wembley, is perhaps one of the tiny minority among the fans in the stand who had been, like me, at the Preston FA Cup Final almost 50 years before.
I said nothing until the man said: "In the Final against Preston I was a bit angry with Ron Greenwood for replacing Martin Peters with that number four; sorry, I can't remember his name". His daughter was astonished to hear such heresy against Greenwood, obviously an icon in their household. So I interceded and said: "You must be thinking of Eddie Bovington". He was astounded and the entire family smiled at me as if I was their long lost brother.
We went to the station together after the commotion had subsided and his daughter told me that it wasn't my fault that the bosses had "inflicted Avram upon our heads". My retort to this ironic remark, embellished by utter friendliness, was short: "I hope Avram will end up in Millwall". The general laughter made it clear, that no further words about this thorny issue would be hurled in my direction.
I got off the train in Bond Street station and dined at a small Italian restaurant. Two English students were very curious about my match programme so we talked about West Ham. They thankfully took it for granted that a foreigner like me would travel from Jerusalem especially for the promotion match. For them, it was a natural manifestation of loyalty, nothing more.
I thought a lot about loyalty versus my principles and accepted that, in the crucial moments, the tribe comes first. When Blackpool drew level in the second half I sensed a real calamity, as if it was my last ever visit to Wembley with the Hammers. Our visits to Wembley are not all that frequent; prior to the Blackpool tie we had last been here 31 years ago, in the League Cup Final against Liverpool. I traveled to this game, too, and we were lucky to get a draw.
In this crucial promotion game we sensed that Blackpool had the upper hand, and even in my stand people were harbouring severe fears. But towards the end, our crowd began to gather momentum. West Ham seemed to be motivated by the surge of our supporters' enthusiasm, and the decisive goal was scored almost by the vocal crescendo created by the crowd. It was as if the 'Bubbles' song pushed the ball into the net, disregarding the events on the pitch.
Not only Big Sam and the players won the day; the entire community had risen to the occasion. I had discovered the enormity of the gap between my enthusiasm for Pep Guardiola's football and my emotional reconciliation with Allardyce. All this did not prevent me from cursing Chelsea and their dreadful football later that evening. People are very complex, and sometimes one must ignore the components of our complexity.
No glamorous game, not even the World Cup final could remove Wembley 2012 from my consciousness. Which is a better option (I was often asked this upon my return to Jerusalem): to sing Bubbles at Wembley with my fellow Hammers - or to sit in the press box in the Euro 2012 final? This is perhaps the easiest question I have had to answer in my life.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Striker Latest: Could Yilmaz be the One?
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
The transfer rumours continue apace. And most of the are complete and utter rubbish, but I suppose it keeps us all entertained. Tonight I read that we have made four £8 million bids for strikers. A likely story. They are supposedly Ba, Yilmaz, Castaignos and - wait for it - Adebayor. As I have said before I don't see any way we could risk re-signing Demba Ba, no matter how much most of us would like to. Are really going to risk £8 million on a player whose knee could go any moment? The finances and risks just don't add up. I can also foresee Hoffenheim atempting to implement some of the terms of the original deal if he comes back. Adebayor would be a no go at this stage. His wages are said to be north of £180k a week, which is something we could never contemplate. The only way that would happen is if Man City can't sell him and would loan him out again for a season. Whether he'd come to us anyway is a very moot point.
Yilmaz is a player who has always impressed me and this is the only one of those four which has any semblance of logic about it. He has a fantastic goals to appearances ratio for his club, Trabzonspur - 55 in 75 games, and for Turkey he has scored 6 in 18. Last season he scored 33 goals in 30 games, which isn't bad, but if you look back at his record for his previous clubs he wasn't nearly as successful. I guess at the age of 26 he has now come into his prime. He's quite a big guy too, at 6'2. And he is used to playing in claret and blue, for those are Trabszonspur's colours too. It's an omen, I tell you, an omen! However, in January he was quoted as saying that if he came to England he wanted to come to Arsenal. Hmmm.
We are still being linked with Yakubu and Grant Holt. Diame will apparently sign on the dotted line in the next 24 hours and a deal with Zaha is said to be close, with Baldock going the other way on a season long loan and Freddie Sears as a permanent makeweight. We'll see.
It's also being reported that Rob Green has received a £2 million signing on fee from QPR, pls £50k a week. You can hardly blame him for moving, can you?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How the Fixtures Fall Will Be a Factor Next Season!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
The PL fixtures for 2012-13 are to be made public tomorrow. Apart from the general interest in who West Ham will be playing and when, it will also be a factor in our success or otherwise next season. You will recall that when we were relegated in 2010-11, our fixure list was front loaded with tough games that put us on a back foot straightaway. It was not the ultimate factor, but it was one of a number of factors contributing to our eventual demise.
If we do well in our first 10 fixures then it dramatically increases out chances of not only surviving, but even perhaps doing a bit better than that. Do badly, over those games, and its more likely that we will face a season long struggle. So, lets hope that the fixtures fall more kindly this time around, to help us get us off to a decent start. Starting with a nice opening home fixture against the likes of Wigan or Norwich City!
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Time for Rave reviews
The Sun
Published: Today at 00:13
WEST HAM chief David Gold has warned Ravel Morrison to make his mark ON the pitch next season. The bad-boy midfielder, 19, was fined for tweeting a homophobic remark in February. Gold said: "He is a great talent, it's time for him to step up to the plate."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM SET TO GO DOUBLE DUTCH FOR ELIA & CASTAIGNOS
Jun 17, 2012 2
Sport360
As they prepare for life back in the Premier League, West Ham are reportedly readying an ambitious double raid on Serie A for Juventus winner Eljero Elia and Internazionale striker Luc Castaignos. Football Italia claim Hammers boss Sam Allardyce held a meeting with Juve director Fabio Paratici last week to discuss a move for Dutch flyer Elia, who has been told he is surplus to requirements at the Juventus Stadium. A €8million has been mooted for the 25-year-old who made only five appearances for the Bianconeri last season following his move from German club Hamburg last summer. Elia has also been heavily linked with Premier league giants Liverpool, but news that West Ham have opened negotiations for the winger suggests that a move to Upton Park may be in the offing. Meanwhile, reports in Italy also claim West Ham have began talks with Inter over the possible signing of Castaignos in a €7million deal. The teenage Dutch forward arrived at the Giuseppe Meazza last summer with a big reputation having netted 15 goals for Feyenoord in Eredivisie. The 19-year-old's exploits caught the eye of a host of Europe's elite with Real Madrid, Arsenal and Manchester United all credited with an interest, before he eventually chose Inter.
However, Castaignos has failed to hit the heights expected in Italy and having made just six appearances for the Nerazzurri he could now be set for a move to east London should West Ham succeed in convincing Inter to sell. West Ham are though to be in the market for a new frontman and have been linked with wantaway Norwich striker Grant Holt, while Wigan midfield Mohamed Diame is set to join on a free transfer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United close in on want-away Wigan Athletic ace Diame
by Rob MacDonald. Published Sun 17 Jun 2012 13:45, Last updated: 2012-06-17
Click Lancashire.com
According to reports Mohamed Diame's switch from Wigan Athletic to West Ham United has moved a step closer. The Daily Mail claims Diame has passed a cardiac medical with a London specialist. Talks are understood to be continuing over his move to Upton Park. Sunderland and Aston Villa remain interested in the 24-year-old, but it seems the Hammers are in pole position.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 17th June 2012
By: Haim Baram
Less than a month ago I returned to my hotel in Marble Arch to watch the Champions League final between Chelsea and Bayern Munich. A mere 10 minutes remained until the ultimate ugliness would emerge on the TV screen.
I expected a bad game and was certain that Chelsea would steal it somehow. We had already endured the horrendous agony during the semi-finals against the superior Barcelona, but in spite of my lofty ideals about pure football I was not over-duly anxious. The really important game had ended exactly two hours before and my heart was not free for negligible matters such as the European championship.
The beautiful rendering of our hymn 'Bubbles' was still ringing in my ears. 40,000 West Ham supporters had sung it hundreds of times at Wembley during the crucial tie versus Blackpool. I could hardly remember such happiness at the end of a football match. Within 90 minutes everything had been determined: we were promoted; Blackpool were doomed for yet another season in the Championship.
Exactly 48 years after I had seen Bobby Moore lifting our first FA Cup on the very same pitch I was geared to go berserk once again, celebrating with much younger fans; most of then had not even been born in 1964. Ricardo Vaz Te scored our winning goal three minutes before the final whistle, and the arguably superior Blackpool ran out of time. The die was cast, and millions of pounds will enrich our coffers by August.
When (the excellent) referee Howard Webb blew the final whistle we were all flooded with waves of wild victory celebrations, devoid of even a shred of hatred towards Blackpool. Our rivals played well enough, their supporters cheered them to the end and they were very fair after the game.
They dispersed quickly, embarked on their sad trip to their coastal town in Lancashire, expecting a mediocre tourist season, overshadowed by the Olympic Games in London and heavily affected by the dour economic situation all over Europe. Maybe they will get some crumbs from the Olympic tourists and some English visitors will stay there to escape the hectic season in the South-East.
Actually, they had anticipated the defeat, after losing the two league matches against the Hammers and trailing behind us in the Championship table by 11 points. But at Wembley they were excellent, hence their noble heartbreak at the end. I could sympathize with them up to a certain point: in such fateful games even declared bleeding-hearts like me are primarily influenced by primordial instincts, devoid of any rational explanations.
It took a great deal of contemplation on the over-populated Bakerloo Line train back to my hotel to reach the sober and modest self-assessment of my behaviour during the celebrations at Wembley: despite all the seemingly sophisticated rhetoric I am actually a tribal, primitive person and therefore find it hard to reconcile reasoning and fine values with the boiling blood, the tears and the remnants of my basic ambivalence.
To be quite truthful, Big Sam's football is not my ideal, and this is an extreme understatement. Perhaps Allardyce is not an ideologically defence-oriented manager, but the style of his teams is reminiscent of the 1950s in England. The ball floats in the air most of the time and we had all been educated by Ron Greenwood to cherish highly skilful and beautiful football, personified by Bobby Moore, Trevor Brooking and Alan Devonshire.
The fans complained during the season about Big Sam's style: his WHU was very strong and physical but lacked finesse and we lost several vital points in our home games at Upton Park. The manager was frequently taunted, grumbled a lot about the scant credit he had received from the fans, despite their (justified) reputation as the most devoted and loyal in English football.
To be quite truthful I composed several anti-Allardyce comments myself, and they were published on KUMB. I even 'sent' the manager to work for the RAF as the ball is in the air most of the time. The professional verdict on Allardyce is not exactly flattering: we (just) missed automatic promotion with a bunch of players that are good enough to secure mid-table spot in the Premier League.
But the dramatic finale at Wembley has erased everything. In our collective memory, it will be forever etched as one of the greatest moments in the history of the club.
And how do I determine my own judgment? Personally I also love Barcelona with all my heart, not only politically and ideologically but also aesthetically. What have I got to do with Allardyce's football, except a tradition lasting more than four decades and profound feelings for West Ham?
If I had to wipe out real tears when our captain Kevin Nolan (not necessarily my favourite footballer) led his mates to a spontaneous and endearingly unruly victory run around the stadium, amid touching scenes of authentic merriment in the stands, the sentiment inside me is very deep. Football has caused me much happiness over the years, even if I mostly preferred the under-achievers (with the possible exception of Barcelona). If I examine our obvious shortcomings too closely, it will be tantamount to a man in love who scrutinizes his lover not with a naked eye, but through x-rays. It can be dangerous, even malignant and certainly is bound to destroy any real joy.
During the game itself and over the half-time break I sort of befriended a nice family from Essex, a bastion of ex-EastEnders and staunch West Ham supporters. The head of the family, a relatively elderly man was flanked by two of his daughters and his son-in-law. They seemed to be familiar with our history and I thought that this man, my immediate neighbour at Wembley, is perhaps one of the tiny minority among the fans in the stand who had been, like me, at the Preston FA Cup Final almost 50 years before.
I said nothing until the man said: "In the Final against Preston I was a bit angry with Ron Greenwood for replacing Martin Peters with that number four; sorry, I can't remember his name". His daughter was astonished to hear such heresy against Greenwood, obviously an icon in their household. So I interceded and said: "You must be thinking of Eddie Bovington". He was astounded and the entire family smiled at me as if I was their long lost brother.
We went to the station together after the commotion had subsided and his daughter told me that it wasn't my fault that the bosses had "inflicted Avram upon our heads". My retort to this ironic remark, embellished by utter friendliness, was short: "I hope Avram will end up in Millwall". The general laughter made it clear, that no further words about this thorny issue would be hurled in my direction.
I got off the train in Bond Street station and dined at a small Italian restaurant. Two English students were very curious about my match programme so we talked about West Ham. They thankfully took it for granted that a foreigner like me would travel from Jerusalem especially for the promotion match. For them, it was a natural manifestation of loyalty, nothing more.
I thought a lot about loyalty versus my principles and accepted that, in the crucial moments, the tribe comes first. When Blackpool drew level in the second half I sensed a real calamity, as if it was my last ever visit to Wembley with the Hammers. Our visits to Wembley are not all that frequent; prior to the Blackpool tie we had last been here 31 years ago, in the League Cup Final against Liverpool. I traveled to this game, too, and we were lucky to get a draw.
In this crucial promotion game we sensed that Blackpool had the upper hand, and even in my stand people were harbouring severe fears. But towards the end, our crowd began to gather momentum. West Ham seemed to be motivated by the surge of our supporters' enthusiasm, and the decisive goal was scored almost by the vocal crescendo created by the crowd. It was as if the 'Bubbles' song pushed the ball into the net, disregarding the events on the pitch.
Not only Big Sam and the players won the day; the entire community had risen to the occasion. I had discovered the enormity of the gap between my enthusiasm for Pep Guardiola's football and my emotional reconciliation with Allardyce. All this did not prevent me from cursing Chelsea and their dreadful football later that evening. People are very complex, and sometimes one must ignore the components of our complexity.
No glamorous game, not even the World Cup final could remove Wembley 2012 from my consciousness. Which is a better option (I was often asked this upon my return to Jerusalem): to sing Bubbles at Wembley with my fellow Hammers - or to sit in the press box in the Euro 2012 final? This is perhaps the easiest question I have had to answer in my life.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Striker Latest: Could Yilmaz be the One?
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
The transfer rumours continue apace. And most of the are complete and utter rubbish, but I suppose it keeps us all entertained. Tonight I read that we have made four £8 million bids for strikers. A likely story. They are supposedly Ba, Yilmaz, Castaignos and - wait for it - Adebayor. As I have said before I don't see any way we could risk re-signing Demba Ba, no matter how much most of us would like to. Are really going to risk £8 million on a player whose knee could go any moment? The finances and risks just don't add up. I can also foresee Hoffenheim atempting to implement some of the terms of the original deal if he comes back. Adebayor would be a no go at this stage. His wages are said to be north of £180k a week, which is something we could never contemplate. The only way that would happen is if Man City can't sell him and would loan him out again for a season. Whether he'd come to us anyway is a very moot point.
Yilmaz is a player who has always impressed me and this is the only one of those four which has any semblance of logic about it. He has a fantastic goals to appearances ratio for his club, Trabzonspur - 55 in 75 games, and for Turkey he has scored 6 in 18. Last season he scored 33 goals in 30 games, which isn't bad, but if you look back at his record for his previous clubs he wasn't nearly as successful. I guess at the age of 26 he has now come into his prime. He's quite a big guy too, at 6'2. And he is used to playing in claret and blue, for those are Trabszonspur's colours too. It's an omen, I tell you, an omen! However, in January he was quoted as saying that if he came to England he wanted to come to Arsenal. Hmmm.
We are still being linked with Yakubu and Grant Holt. Diame will apparently sign on the dotted line in the next 24 hours and a deal with Zaha is said to be close, with Baldock going the other way on a season long loan and Freddie Sears as a permanent makeweight. We'll see.
It's also being reported that Rob Green has received a £2 million signing on fee from QPR, pls £50k a week. You can hardly blame him for moving, can you?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How the Fixtures Fall Will Be a Factor Next Season!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
The PL fixtures for 2012-13 are to be made public tomorrow. Apart from the general interest in who West Ham will be playing and when, it will also be a factor in our success or otherwise next season. You will recall that when we were relegated in 2010-11, our fixure list was front loaded with tough games that put us on a back foot straightaway. It was not the ultimate factor, but it was one of a number of factors contributing to our eventual demise.
If we do well in our first 10 fixures then it dramatically increases out chances of not only surviving, but even perhaps doing a bit better than that. Do badly, over those games, and its more likely that we will face a season long struggle. So, lets hope that the fixtures fall more kindly this time around, to help us get us off to a decent start. Starting with a nice opening home fixture against the likes of Wigan or Norwich City!
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Time for Rave reviews
The Sun
Published: Today at 00:13
WEST HAM chief David Gold has warned Ravel Morrison to make his mark ON the pitch next season. The bad-boy midfielder, 19, was fined for tweeting a homophobic remark in February. Gold said: "He is a great talent, it's time for him to step up to the plate."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM SET TO GO DOUBLE DUTCH FOR ELIA & CASTAIGNOS
Jun 17, 2012 2
Sport360
As they prepare for life back in the Premier League, West Ham are reportedly readying an ambitious double raid on Serie A for Juventus winner Eljero Elia and Internazionale striker Luc Castaignos. Football Italia claim Hammers boss Sam Allardyce held a meeting with Juve director Fabio Paratici last week to discuss a move for Dutch flyer Elia, who has been told he is surplus to requirements at the Juventus Stadium. A €8million has been mooted for the 25-year-old who made only five appearances for the Bianconeri last season following his move from German club Hamburg last summer. Elia has also been heavily linked with Premier league giants Liverpool, but news that West Ham have opened negotiations for the winger suggests that a move to Upton Park may be in the offing. Meanwhile, reports in Italy also claim West Ham have began talks with Inter over the possible signing of Castaignos in a €7million deal. The teenage Dutch forward arrived at the Giuseppe Meazza last summer with a big reputation having netted 15 goals for Feyenoord in Eredivisie. The 19-year-old's exploits caught the eye of a host of Europe's elite with Real Madrid, Arsenal and Manchester United all credited with an interest, before he eventually chose Inter.
However, Castaignos has failed to hit the heights expected in Italy and having made just six appearances for the Nerazzurri he could now be set for a move to east London should West Ham succeed in convincing Inter to sell. West Ham are though to be in the market for a new frontman and have been linked with wantaway Norwich striker Grant Holt, while Wigan midfield Mohamed Diame is set to join on a free transfer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United close in on want-away Wigan Athletic ace Diame
by Rob MacDonald. Published Sun 17 Jun 2012 13:45, Last updated: 2012-06-17
Click Lancashire.com
According to reports Mohamed Diame's switch from Wigan Athletic to West Ham United has moved a step closer. The Daily Mail claims Diame has passed a cardiac medical with a London specialist. Talks are understood to be continuing over his move to Upton Park. Sunderland and Aston Villa remain interested in the 24-year-old, but it seems the Hammers are in pole position.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, June 17
Daily WHUFC News - 17th June 2012
Jussi eager to get started
WHUFC.com
Jussi Jaaskelainen is looking forward to joining up with his new team-mates at the start of pre-season
16.06.2012
Jussi Jaaskelainen has confessed that he cannot wait for his first training session with his new West Ham United team-mates. The Finland international goalkeeper has agreed personal terms with the Hammers and will join on 1 July - the day Sam Allardyce and his squad return for the first day of pre-season training. Jaaskelainen, West Ham United's second goalkeeping signing of the summer, will then be offered the perfect opportunity to get to know his new team-mates as the squad fly out for a week's intensive training break in Austria the very next day. Here, the former Bolton Player of the Year looks ahead to the new season in an exclusive Q+A with whufc.com.
Welcome to West Ham, how are you feeling?
JJ: I am delighted to have joined. After spending 15 years in Bolton it's a great challenge and I'm looking forward to it.
How did the move come about?
JJ: It happened very quickly. I have worked under Big Sam before and when I heard West Ham were interested I didn't think twice. I asked my agent to arrange it as quickly as possible. Sometimes you're very lucky when things happen and I'm delighted.
You obviously know the manager from your time at Bolton. Was he a big reason you wanted to join?
JJ: It's great working with Big Sam and I like the way he manages the players on the field and off the field and how he manages the staff. When you play in the Premier League at the top level, every little detail needs to be looked after and he's one of the best men at doing that. The manager was a big factor in me coming here and challenging myself.
What was it that appealed to you about joining West Ham?
JJ: The fans get behind the team really well and they always have a good following at away games. Hopefully I can go on to do a very good for them. It was a big thing to be able to stay in the Premier League as well.
With some other talented goalkeepers at the club, we assume you'll be coming here to fight for the No1 jersey won't you?
JJ: At the start of pre-season we all start at the same place and hopefully I can play at the level I've been playing at over the years. When pre-season starts we will all be working hard and I'm ready for it and looking forward to it.
What are you hoping to achieve with the club?
JJ: It will be a new challenge. The deal is for one year with a possible second year and our very first goal has to be to make sure that we keep West Ham United in the Premier League. We can then start to build for the future and hopefully I can be a big part of the start of that.
You're an experienced goalkeeper, what will that add to the squad?
JJ: That's the thing. I'm 37 and I think I've got at least three or four more years left yet. One important reason why I wanted to come to West Ham is that I know Big Sam looks after the players in the right way and the right manner. Hopefully I can extend my stay longer than the first year or two.
Finally, have you got any message for the fans and staff at Bolton where you spent 15 years?
JJ: Well, firstly I appreciate Bolton giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my contract was up and for the efforts the Chairman made in trying to get me to stay. I would like to thank the fans for all their support over the years and I will continue to be a fan. I wish the players and, in particular, Owen Coyle, all the best in gaining promotion at the first attempt . Most importantly I would like to thank Eddie Davies, the owner, Chairman Phil Gartside, Fred Barber, my long-term goalkeeping coach, and all the staff at the club for all of the support and guidance they have shown my family and I.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fixtures out on Monday
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's Premier League fixtures will be confirmed on Monday morning
15.06.2012
The waiting is nearly over as West Ham United's fixtures for the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League season will be released on Monday morning at 9am. Just under a month after the Hammers secured the most dramatic of promotions from the npower Championship by beating Blackpool 2-1 at Wembley in the Play-Off final, Sam Allardyce and his squad will find out how their return to England's top tier will shape up.
The visits of champions Manchester City and their local rivals Manchester United to the Boleyn Ground are sure to be one of the first fixtures fans will look out for, as will the derby-day dates with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. Queens Park Rangers' second season in the Premier League means West Ham fans can now look forward to no less than ten London derbies at home and away in 2012/13.
Subscribers to the official West Ham United SMS service will be the first to get the key fixtures sent to them, but then whufc.com and the club's official twitter and Facebook pages will have all of the news and reaction from the people that matter at 9am. Remember a West Ham United Season Ticket is the best way to secure your seat for every single home game and with new applications well up on previous years, fans are advised to move fast to avoid missing out. To buy yours today, click the image below.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Happy Hutch
WHUFC.com
Don Hutchison believes West Ham United can flourish in the Barclays Premier League next season
15.06.2012
Don Hutchison is optimistic that West Ham United have the right tools to flourish in the Barclays Premier League. Hutchison, who was back at the Boleyn Ground this week to manage a team of Royal Marines against a side coached by Tony Gale, believes Sam Allardyce's squad possesses the right blend of youth and experience to thrive in 2012/13. "The Championship was a hard division to get out of, but I think Sam has done a fantastic job," Hutchison told West Ham TV. "They did it the hard way by coming through the Play-Offs, which was a bit nerve-wracking, but it's great to be back in the Premier League. "I think the Premier League will benefit from having a club like West Ham back in there with their fans and the revenue they will bring. It's great to see everyone with smiles on their faces again. "Sam has brought in Jussi Jaaskelainen who has plenty of experience and what we are looking for is to see what type of players Sam wants to bring in. "This will be a different test for the boys and a different test for Sam. He's obviously been there with Bolton and Blackburn before. "We've got some good experienced players and a bit of youth as well. Mark Noble is a good one to have around the place and if we can get service to Carlton Cole he'll score goals. I think Sam just needs to tweak it slightly. I think the starting XI is a very, very good side but we need to strengthen the squad."
The former Hammers and Scotland attacking midfielder also called for supporters to be patient and not to expect too much, too soon on the Club's return to the top flight. "There are lots of top sides in the Premier League. There are sides in that league who are going to cause problems, so the fans have to be patient. What we don't want is West Ham going without a win for two or three games and there being a bit of disgruntlement around the place - the fans have to stick with them and trust the manager. "If it gets to the end of the season and it hasn't worked, then they have a right to have a little go, but they have got to be pro-active at the start of the season and get behind them."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Freedman a fan of Baldock
Palace boss also says there has been no movement on Martin
Last Updated: June 15, 2012 7:24pm
SSN
Crystal Palace manager Dougie Freedman says Sam Baldock is a 'very good player', but insists there has been no contact over a move for the West Ham United striker. Baldock joined the Hammers on a four-year contract from MK Dons in August last year and scored five goals in 23 Championship appearances last season.
However, he did not start a game after mid-January and is tipped to be allowed out on a season-long loan following West Ham's return to the Premier League.
Charlton Athletic and Ipswich Town have also been linked with a bid, and Freedman suggested the 23-year-old is the type of forward he would be interested in.
Freedman told the Croydon Advertiser: "Sam is a very good young player, but we have not made any contact with West Ham." The Palace boss also confirmed there had been no developments on a deal to bring Chris Martin back to Selhurst Park after he impressed on loan from Norwich City last term. He added: "He did very well for us, but nothing has happened there at all."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rob Green's Exit - A Personal Point of View
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
If the latest reports are to be believed, Robert Green is on the verge of agreeing a Bosman move to QPR. It has been reported that Green has agreed a three year deal worth £40,000 a week. And QPR representatives have flown out to the Euro-Championships, where Green is currently on England duty, to clinch the deal. This is despite alternative interest from Spurs and WBA, who have either not pursued their initial interest or have been beaten to the punch by QPR.
No doubt financially it is a very good deal for Green. Not only does he get a reported £40,000 a week basic wage, but as a Bosman he also gets to negotiate his signing on fee, which will be substantial. In footballing terms, who knows? He is likely to play on a regular basis at QPR, something that is not guaranteed at a club like Spurs. A lot will depend on whether QPR are able to substantially strengthen their squad this summer and avoid a repeat of last season's PL struggles. Will West Ham out perform QPR in next season's PL? Obviously, It depends on our success in the transfer market and the ability of key current players to perform in the PL? Many neutrals will interprete this as a sideways move for Rob Green, in terms of the respective prospects of both club's next season.
I personally think that we Hammers supporters should wish Green well and bid him a fond farewell, without bitterness or grudge. West Ham obviously had the option to sign him on a new deal and decided that they could not meet his wage demands. So he has walked and is apparently in the process of joining a club that has met his valuation of his worth; as well as securing a Bosman signing on fee. And who can blame him in all honesty? Rumour has it that Green was the lowest paid senior professional at the club, which is surprising when you consider the consistency of his performances and his ongoing importance to us. There have been rumours over the last two seasons concerning a new deal for Green, only for talks between player and club to apparently break down, or be suspended, depending on what version you have heard! Regardless, the new deal did not materialise and the 11th hour bid to reach agreement ultimately proved abortive.
For the initial £2m fee, we got six seasons of sterling service. Green did very well for us, with his characteristic reaction saves. Every season, he pulled off wonder saves from opposition efforts that had 'goal written all over them.' In that sense, he definitely saved us points most seasons. Even in the dire relegation season of 2010-11 he was one of thevery few West Ham players to emerge with any credit. And thereafter, even though Green's future remained uncertain, he put in another committed series of performances last season. Green's final contribution to the club being his performance against Blackpool in the Play-off Final at Wembley. A key moment being that close range, near post, save from Scott Dobie in the early stages of the match. However, Rob Green's finest hour was doubtedly his vital contribution to the great escape of 2006-07. In particular, who can ever forget his performance against Arsenal, at the Emirates, that guaranteed our 0-1 win and a very unlikely 3 points. It was undoubtedly one of the finest displays of goal keeping that I have ever witnessed and will forever be enshrined in Hammers folklore.
Some wll argue that Green has his weaknesses as a keeper. Most commonly cited is his alleged failure to consistently command his area and collect high ball in to the box. That may be true, but it must also be admitted that he has some countervailing attributes that have to be recognised and given due weight. The bottom line is that Green was a good servant to the club and we should honour his past contribution. Time will tell if it is a good move, in football terms, for him; as well as determine whether West Ham have made a major mistake in not meeting his contract demands? But the truth is the club is bigger than any one player and there will always come a time when there has to be a parting of the ways, even for the greatest and most loyal of Hammers players.
Lets bid Rob Green a fond farewell and look to the future. I must admit that I would have preferred to keep him at the club, but it was not to be. So, a new goal keeping era opens with hope and optimism. The Goal keeper is the foundation building block of all good sides, upon which the defence is constructed. Jussi, Henderson and any other keeper that we recruit must rise to the challenge, next season, of filling the gap created by the departure of a good Hammers custodian! Upwards and onwards! COYI !
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Is the Potential Signing of Guti a Good Move?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
West Ham are supposedly offering ex-Real Madrid veteran, Guti, a trial this summer. Guti is 35 years of age and was released by his club in the Turkish league, last season, before the end of his contract. In recent months he has not been attached to another club and consequently has been inactive playing wise. Guti was previously a very successful footballer with Real Madrid, over a number of years, winning multiple Spanish titles and the Champions League, but is he still good enough for the EPL? It may be that Guti will be Sam Allardyce's elder statesman in the dressing room, a vastly experienced player who can give advice and impact from the bench. Certainly Allardyce used quality, older professionals well during his time at Bolton Wanderers, perhaps this is him adopting the same approach.
My own view is that I am not prepared to condemn the move until we know what the player has left in the tank and what he has to offer the club. Presumably Sam Allardyce has taken the same view, hence his trail over the pre-season period. Sam Allardyce knows how to use these older professionals, in the latter stages of their careers, to good effect. He proved that at Bolton. So I would advise that we wait and see on this one.
How do other Hammers fans initially view the move, a smart, very experienced addition to the Squad or a deal best avoided, as the player is likelyto be well past his best? Or perhaps you have also adopted a wait and see position?
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM EXPECTED TO MAKE IMPROVED BIP FOR GRANT HOLT
Daily Express
Sunday June 17,2012
By Daily Express Reporter
WEST HAM are expected to make an increased offer of £4million tomorrow for Norwich City's unsettled striker Grant Holt. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce, looking to bring in at least five new players, has already agreed a deal to sign Bolton keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and is close to landing Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha.
And former Real Madrid midfielder, Guti says he also expects to join the Upton Park club on their return to the Premier League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former West Ham stopper Green set to complete QPR switch
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:42, 16 June 2012 | UPDATED: 22:42, 16 June 2012
Daily Mail
QPR will wrap up a deal for West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green while the 32-year-old is on England duty at Euro 2012. And manager Mark Hughes has also persuaded Spurs defender Ryan Nelsen to join him at Loftus Road. Green left West Ham on a Bosman and his representatives have agreed a £40,000-aweek contract that will allow QPR keeper Paddy Kenny to go to Leeds United.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers seek Elia and Castaignos
By Football Italia staff
FootballItalia.net
West Ham are not only in talks with Juventus for Eljero Elia, but also reportedly discussing Luc Castaignos with Inter. Manager Sam Allardyce was spotted earlier this week in a meeting with Juve director Fabio Paratici. It was believed he was in negotiations to sign both Elia and Milos Krasic, although it appears the Dutch winger is now the primary target for around €8m. According to Italian sources, the Hammers are also talking to Inter with the possibility of taking forward Castaignos for €7m.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diame passes cardiac medical as West Ham close in on midfielder
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 20:00, 15 June 2012 | UPDATED: 20:00, 15 June 2012
Daily Mail
Mohamed Diame has passed a cardiac medical with a London specialist as talks continue over a move to West Ham. Sunderland and Aston Villa remain interested in the former Wigan midfielder, 24, but Sam Allardyce is in pole position.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Real Madrid midfielder Guti set for West Ham move
CHARLES HIGSON SMITH FRIDAY 15 JUNE 2012
The Independent
Ex-Real Madrid midfeilder Guti could be set for a move to Upton park, with the 35-year-old currently in talks with West Ham manager Sam Allardyce. Guti reportedly told Goal.com: "Yes West Ham are interested but nothing is decided yet. We are negotiating." In an attempt to avoid an immediate return to the Championship, Allardyce is trying to bring as much experience as possible to the club. Having already signed Jussi Jasskelainen earlier this week, Guti would be a valuable addition.
The Spaniard won La Liga five times and the Champions league three times with Real Madrid. One of Guti's representatives, Barry O'Connor, told The Sun: "West Ham will make a final decision before the next season starts. I cannot discuss what terms could be offered." Guti would move on a free transfer since his contract at Besiktas has expired.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Jussi Jaaskelainen is looking forward to joining up with his new team-mates at the start of pre-season
16.06.2012
Jussi Jaaskelainen has confessed that he cannot wait for his first training session with his new West Ham United team-mates. The Finland international goalkeeper has agreed personal terms with the Hammers and will join on 1 July - the day Sam Allardyce and his squad return for the first day of pre-season training. Jaaskelainen, West Ham United's second goalkeeping signing of the summer, will then be offered the perfect opportunity to get to know his new team-mates as the squad fly out for a week's intensive training break in Austria the very next day. Here, the former Bolton Player of the Year looks ahead to the new season in an exclusive Q+A with whufc.com.
Welcome to West Ham, how are you feeling?
JJ: I am delighted to have joined. After spending 15 years in Bolton it's a great challenge and I'm looking forward to it.
How did the move come about?
JJ: It happened very quickly. I have worked under Big Sam before and when I heard West Ham were interested I didn't think twice. I asked my agent to arrange it as quickly as possible. Sometimes you're very lucky when things happen and I'm delighted.
You obviously know the manager from your time at Bolton. Was he a big reason you wanted to join?
JJ: It's great working with Big Sam and I like the way he manages the players on the field and off the field and how he manages the staff. When you play in the Premier League at the top level, every little detail needs to be looked after and he's one of the best men at doing that. The manager was a big factor in me coming here and challenging myself.
What was it that appealed to you about joining West Ham?
JJ: The fans get behind the team really well and they always have a good following at away games. Hopefully I can go on to do a very good for them. It was a big thing to be able to stay in the Premier League as well.
With some other talented goalkeepers at the club, we assume you'll be coming here to fight for the No1 jersey won't you?
JJ: At the start of pre-season we all start at the same place and hopefully I can play at the level I've been playing at over the years. When pre-season starts we will all be working hard and I'm ready for it and looking forward to it.
What are you hoping to achieve with the club?
JJ: It will be a new challenge. The deal is for one year with a possible second year and our very first goal has to be to make sure that we keep West Ham United in the Premier League. We can then start to build for the future and hopefully I can be a big part of the start of that.
You're an experienced goalkeeper, what will that add to the squad?
JJ: That's the thing. I'm 37 and I think I've got at least three or four more years left yet. One important reason why I wanted to come to West Ham is that I know Big Sam looks after the players in the right way and the right manner. Hopefully I can extend my stay longer than the first year or two.
Finally, have you got any message for the fans and staff at Bolton where you spent 15 years?
JJ: Well, firstly I appreciate Bolton giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my contract was up and for the efforts the Chairman made in trying to get me to stay. I would like to thank the fans for all their support over the years and I will continue to be a fan. I wish the players and, in particular, Owen Coyle, all the best in gaining promotion at the first attempt . Most importantly I would like to thank Eddie Davies, the owner, Chairman Phil Gartside, Fred Barber, my long-term goalkeeping coach, and all the staff at the club for all of the support and guidance they have shown my family and I.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fixtures out on Monday
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's Premier League fixtures will be confirmed on Monday morning
15.06.2012
The waiting is nearly over as West Ham United's fixtures for the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League season will be released on Monday morning at 9am. Just under a month after the Hammers secured the most dramatic of promotions from the npower Championship by beating Blackpool 2-1 at Wembley in the Play-Off final, Sam Allardyce and his squad will find out how their return to England's top tier will shape up.
The visits of champions Manchester City and their local rivals Manchester United to the Boleyn Ground are sure to be one of the first fixtures fans will look out for, as will the derby-day dates with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. Queens Park Rangers' second season in the Premier League means West Ham fans can now look forward to no less than ten London derbies at home and away in 2012/13.
Subscribers to the official West Ham United SMS service will be the first to get the key fixtures sent to them, but then whufc.com and the club's official twitter and Facebook pages will have all of the news and reaction from the people that matter at 9am. Remember a West Ham United Season Ticket is the best way to secure your seat for every single home game and with new applications well up on previous years, fans are advised to move fast to avoid missing out. To buy yours today, click the image below.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Happy Hutch
WHUFC.com
Don Hutchison believes West Ham United can flourish in the Barclays Premier League next season
15.06.2012
Don Hutchison is optimistic that West Ham United have the right tools to flourish in the Barclays Premier League. Hutchison, who was back at the Boleyn Ground this week to manage a team of Royal Marines against a side coached by Tony Gale, believes Sam Allardyce's squad possesses the right blend of youth and experience to thrive in 2012/13. "The Championship was a hard division to get out of, but I think Sam has done a fantastic job," Hutchison told West Ham TV. "They did it the hard way by coming through the Play-Offs, which was a bit nerve-wracking, but it's great to be back in the Premier League. "I think the Premier League will benefit from having a club like West Ham back in there with their fans and the revenue they will bring. It's great to see everyone with smiles on their faces again. "Sam has brought in Jussi Jaaskelainen who has plenty of experience and what we are looking for is to see what type of players Sam wants to bring in. "This will be a different test for the boys and a different test for Sam. He's obviously been there with Bolton and Blackburn before. "We've got some good experienced players and a bit of youth as well. Mark Noble is a good one to have around the place and if we can get service to Carlton Cole he'll score goals. I think Sam just needs to tweak it slightly. I think the starting XI is a very, very good side but we need to strengthen the squad."
The former Hammers and Scotland attacking midfielder also called for supporters to be patient and not to expect too much, too soon on the Club's return to the top flight. "There are lots of top sides in the Premier League. There are sides in that league who are going to cause problems, so the fans have to be patient. What we don't want is West Ham going without a win for two or three games and there being a bit of disgruntlement around the place - the fans have to stick with them and trust the manager. "If it gets to the end of the season and it hasn't worked, then they have a right to have a little go, but they have got to be pro-active at the start of the season and get behind them."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Freedman a fan of Baldock
Palace boss also says there has been no movement on Martin
Last Updated: June 15, 2012 7:24pm
SSN
Crystal Palace manager Dougie Freedman says Sam Baldock is a 'very good player', but insists there has been no contact over a move for the West Ham United striker. Baldock joined the Hammers on a four-year contract from MK Dons in August last year and scored five goals in 23 Championship appearances last season.
However, he did not start a game after mid-January and is tipped to be allowed out on a season-long loan following West Ham's return to the Premier League.
Charlton Athletic and Ipswich Town have also been linked with a bid, and Freedman suggested the 23-year-old is the type of forward he would be interested in.
Freedman told the Croydon Advertiser: "Sam is a very good young player, but we have not made any contact with West Ham." The Palace boss also confirmed there had been no developments on a deal to bring Chris Martin back to Selhurst Park after he impressed on loan from Norwich City last term. He added: "He did very well for us, but nothing has happened there at all."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rob Green's Exit - A Personal Point of View
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
If the latest reports are to be believed, Robert Green is on the verge of agreeing a Bosman move to QPR. It has been reported that Green has agreed a three year deal worth £40,000 a week. And QPR representatives have flown out to the Euro-Championships, where Green is currently on England duty, to clinch the deal. This is despite alternative interest from Spurs and WBA, who have either not pursued their initial interest or have been beaten to the punch by QPR.
No doubt financially it is a very good deal for Green. Not only does he get a reported £40,000 a week basic wage, but as a Bosman he also gets to negotiate his signing on fee, which will be substantial. In footballing terms, who knows? He is likely to play on a regular basis at QPR, something that is not guaranteed at a club like Spurs. A lot will depend on whether QPR are able to substantially strengthen their squad this summer and avoid a repeat of last season's PL struggles. Will West Ham out perform QPR in next season's PL? Obviously, It depends on our success in the transfer market and the ability of key current players to perform in the PL? Many neutrals will interprete this as a sideways move for Rob Green, in terms of the respective prospects of both club's next season.
I personally think that we Hammers supporters should wish Green well and bid him a fond farewell, without bitterness or grudge. West Ham obviously had the option to sign him on a new deal and decided that they could not meet his wage demands. So he has walked and is apparently in the process of joining a club that has met his valuation of his worth; as well as securing a Bosman signing on fee. And who can blame him in all honesty? Rumour has it that Green was the lowest paid senior professional at the club, which is surprising when you consider the consistency of his performances and his ongoing importance to us. There have been rumours over the last two seasons concerning a new deal for Green, only for talks between player and club to apparently break down, or be suspended, depending on what version you have heard! Regardless, the new deal did not materialise and the 11th hour bid to reach agreement ultimately proved abortive.
For the initial £2m fee, we got six seasons of sterling service. Green did very well for us, with his characteristic reaction saves. Every season, he pulled off wonder saves from opposition efforts that had 'goal written all over them.' In that sense, he definitely saved us points most seasons. Even in the dire relegation season of 2010-11 he was one of thevery few West Ham players to emerge with any credit. And thereafter, even though Green's future remained uncertain, he put in another committed series of performances last season. Green's final contribution to the club being his performance against Blackpool in the Play-off Final at Wembley. A key moment being that close range, near post, save from Scott Dobie in the early stages of the match. However, Rob Green's finest hour was doubtedly his vital contribution to the great escape of 2006-07. In particular, who can ever forget his performance against Arsenal, at the Emirates, that guaranteed our 0-1 win and a very unlikely 3 points. It was undoubtedly one of the finest displays of goal keeping that I have ever witnessed and will forever be enshrined in Hammers folklore.
Some wll argue that Green has his weaknesses as a keeper. Most commonly cited is his alleged failure to consistently command his area and collect high ball in to the box. That may be true, but it must also be admitted that he has some countervailing attributes that have to be recognised and given due weight. The bottom line is that Green was a good servant to the club and we should honour his past contribution. Time will tell if it is a good move, in football terms, for him; as well as determine whether West Ham have made a major mistake in not meeting his contract demands? But the truth is the club is bigger than any one player and there will always come a time when there has to be a parting of the ways, even for the greatest and most loyal of Hammers players.
Lets bid Rob Green a fond farewell and look to the future. I must admit that I would have preferred to keep him at the club, but it was not to be. So, a new goal keeping era opens with hope and optimism. The Goal keeper is the foundation building block of all good sides, upon which the defence is constructed. Jussi, Henderson and any other keeper that we recruit must rise to the challenge, next season, of filling the gap created by the departure of a good Hammers custodian! Upwards and onwards! COYI !
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Is the Potential Signing of Guti a Good Move?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
West Ham are supposedly offering ex-Real Madrid veteran, Guti, a trial this summer. Guti is 35 years of age and was released by his club in the Turkish league, last season, before the end of his contract. In recent months he has not been attached to another club and consequently has been inactive playing wise. Guti was previously a very successful footballer with Real Madrid, over a number of years, winning multiple Spanish titles and the Champions League, but is he still good enough for the EPL? It may be that Guti will be Sam Allardyce's elder statesman in the dressing room, a vastly experienced player who can give advice and impact from the bench. Certainly Allardyce used quality, older professionals well during his time at Bolton Wanderers, perhaps this is him adopting the same approach.
My own view is that I am not prepared to condemn the move until we know what the player has left in the tank and what he has to offer the club. Presumably Sam Allardyce has taken the same view, hence his trail over the pre-season period. Sam Allardyce knows how to use these older professionals, in the latter stages of their careers, to good effect. He proved that at Bolton. So I would advise that we wait and see on this one.
How do other Hammers fans initially view the move, a smart, very experienced addition to the Squad or a deal best avoided, as the player is likelyto be well past his best? Or perhaps you have also adopted a wait and see position?
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM EXPECTED TO MAKE IMPROVED BIP FOR GRANT HOLT
Daily Express
Sunday June 17,2012
By Daily Express Reporter
WEST HAM are expected to make an increased offer of £4million tomorrow for Norwich City's unsettled striker Grant Holt. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce, looking to bring in at least five new players, has already agreed a deal to sign Bolton keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and is close to landing Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha.
And former Real Madrid midfielder, Guti says he also expects to join the Upton Park club on their return to the Premier League.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former West Ham stopper Green set to complete QPR switch
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:42, 16 June 2012 | UPDATED: 22:42, 16 June 2012
Daily Mail
QPR will wrap up a deal for West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green while the 32-year-old is on England duty at Euro 2012. And manager Mark Hughes has also persuaded Spurs defender Ryan Nelsen to join him at Loftus Road. Green left West Ham on a Bosman and his representatives have agreed a £40,000-aweek contract that will allow QPR keeper Paddy Kenny to go to Leeds United.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers seek Elia and Castaignos
By Football Italia staff
FootballItalia.net
West Ham are not only in talks with Juventus for Eljero Elia, but also reportedly discussing Luc Castaignos with Inter. Manager Sam Allardyce was spotted earlier this week in a meeting with Juve director Fabio Paratici. It was believed he was in negotiations to sign both Elia and Milos Krasic, although it appears the Dutch winger is now the primary target for around €8m. According to Italian sources, the Hammers are also talking to Inter with the possibility of taking forward Castaignos for €7m.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diame passes cardiac medical as West Ham close in on midfielder
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 20:00, 15 June 2012 | UPDATED: 20:00, 15 June 2012
Daily Mail
Mohamed Diame has passed a cardiac medical with a London specialist as talks continue over a move to West Ham. Sunderland and Aston Villa remain interested in the former Wigan midfielder, 24, but Sam Allardyce is in pole position.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Real Madrid midfielder Guti set for West Ham move
CHARLES HIGSON SMITH FRIDAY 15 JUNE 2012
The Independent
Ex-Real Madrid midfeilder Guti could be set for a move to Upton park, with the 35-year-old currently in talks with West Ham manager Sam Allardyce. Guti reportedly told Goal.com: "Yes West Ham are interested but nothing is decided yet. We are negotiating." In an attempt to avoid an immediate return to the Championship, Allardyce is trying to bring as much experience as possible to the club. Having already signed Jussi Jasskelainen earlier this week, Guti would be a valuable addition.
The Spaniard won La Liga five times and the Champions league three times with Real Madrid. One of Guti's representatives, Barry O'Connor, told The Sun: "West Ham will make a final decision before the next season starts. I cannot discuss what terms could be offered." Guti would move on a free transfer since his contract at Besiktas has expired.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, June 15
Daily WHUFC News - 15th June 2012
Rot-Weiß Erfurt tickets on sale now
WHUFC.com
Tickets for the pre-season meeting with German side FC Rot-Weiß Erfurt are now available to Hammers supporters
13.06.2012
West Ham United fans can purchase tickets for the pre-season match at German club FC Rot-Weiß Erfurt now. The Hammers will travel to the Steigerwaldstadion for what promises to be a mouth-watering fixture against the 3.Liga side on Wednesday 25 July, with kick-off at 7pm local time. West Ham supporters have been allocated the Stehplatz-Block 2 terrace, with standing tickets priced at €15 Adults and €13.50 for Concessions. Hammers fans have also been allocated seats in section F priced at €18 for Adults and €16 for Concessions.
The match is one of three taking place during West Ham's pre-season trip to Germany. Sam Allardyce and his squad head to mainland Europe on 23 July before taking on Rot-Weiß Erfurt (25 July), Dynamo Dresden (27 July) and FC Energie Cottbus (29 July).
Rot-Weiß Erfurt finished fifth in the 3.Liga table, just two points off the automatic promotion places, and lost just nine of their 38 league matches. The club twice won the East German Premier League title in 1954 and 1955 and were twice East German Cup runners-up in 1950 and 1980. Among the club's first-team squad is Englishman and former Reading full-back Rhys Tyler.
The Hammers have a number of links with Germany, having beaten TSV 1860 Munich 2-0 in the 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup final at Wembley and been represented by German international Thomas Hitzlsperger.
While they have never met Rot-Weiß Erfurt or Energie Cottbus previously, the Hammers met Dresden in August 1986, when John Lyall's side defeated the then-East
German giants 2-1 at the FC Groningen Tournament in the Netherlands through goals from Tony Cottee and Frank McAvennie. Twenty-six years later and the two sides will meet again.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Barnet sign goalkeeper Sam Cowler from West Ham United
BBc.co.uk
Barnet have signed young goalkeeper Sam Cowler from West Ham United. The 19-year-old spent time playing in the League Two side's youth team while on loan last season. Bees head coach Mark Robson said: "He may be young, but he's a tall kid and what I like about him, along with his ability, is his attitude. "I can see that he will be pushing whoever is in front of him for a first team place. That's the kind of competition I want to see in my team." He added: "It's important we begin adding to the squad, and I'm pleased to see that's started with Sam."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Transfer latest: 14 June
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 14th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are said to have had a £4million bid for Wolves winger Matt Jarvis rejected, according to reports. Sky Sports 'understand' that United saw an offer for the 26-year-old Middlesbrough born player rejected by the relegated club yesterday. Elsewhere this morning, several sources continue to suggest potential Italian-based targets after Sam Allardyce was apparently spotted meeting with representatives of Juventus and Milan on Tuesday. Both Dutch and Italian sources have linked West Ham with a possible move for Luc Castaignos in the past 24 hours, a name we first mentioned here on KUMB in our transfer round-up on Tuesday. 19-year-old Castaignos hit 15 goals in 37 starts for Feyenoord before landing a €6.5million switch to the Italian giants last summer, but made just six first team appearances in his first season at the San Siro. West Ham are said to want to take the Dutch teenager on a permanent basis although Inter are rumoured to prefer a loan move.
Meanwhile the Daily Mail, who told us on Tuesday that West Ham were willing to offer £4million for Norwich's Grant Holt - two weeks after they claimed a £4.5million bid had been rejected - have ressurected the Yakubu link. However another source, a Twitter-based football agent claimed last night that the Blackburn striker is instead on his way to Qatar. Momo Diame, who has been at the centre of much gossip in the last 48 hours is said to be jetting into England tomorrow in order to hold talks with West Ham - and possibly one or two other clubs. The Wigan midfielder, who becomes a free agent at the end of this month has also been linked with Liverpool and the now-managerless Tottenham in the past few days.
The Daily Star, not exactly renowned for their transfer exclusives suggest that West Ham are 'ready to make a £3million bid' for ex-Hammer James Collins, currently earning vast sums at Aston Villa. The Welsh international, despite being labelled by many as 'the one that got away' managed an average of just 16 appearances per season during his four years in east London from 2006 to 2010 before joining Villa in a £4million switch. We're really scraping the barrel this morning for outgoings, but gossip that appears to have begun somewhere on Twitter's vast network hints at interest in Freds Sears and Piquionne from Hull City. Now managed by Steve Bruce, who succeeded the departing Nick Barmby last week the Tigers are looking to boost their squad in preparation for an assault on next season's Championship. So why they're looking at Piquionne, God only knows... As for KUMB.com, we've heard absolutely nothing new on the transfer front in the past 24 hours so have nothing more than the above speculation to offer you today. Sorry.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Return of James Collins?
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
The Daily Star reports this morning that we have lodged a bid of £3 million for former Hammers defender James Collins, who is entering the last year of his contract. Collins impressed during his time at West Ham and has been an important player for Villa, but I wonder whether this would really be good business for us. On the face of it he is the right age - 28 - but he is very injury prone. In his career so far, he has only made 211 appearances. He does, however, chip in with the odd goal. Could he make a good partner for James Tomkins? I'm undecided, so I'll let you debate the merits!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam's Gut feeling
The Sun
Published: Today at 00:21
SAM ALLARDYCE has made a bold move to make former Real Madrid star Guti his first signing of the summer. The West Ham manager will take the Spaniard on his club's pre-season tour of Austria. And if the 35-year-old can prove his fitness he will get a two-year deal at Upton Park. Guti is available on a free and has been without a club since Turkish side Besiktas released him in November last year. Barry O'Connor, who looks after Guti's affairs in England, said:: "West Ham will make a final decision before the next season starts. I cannot discuss what terms could be offered." Guti has made more than 500 appearances and is one of Spain's most decorated players. He won 15 trophies for Real, including three Champions League titles and five league wins. Allardyce wants to add another cool head to his squad as he builds his squad for the Premier League. The Hammers made an immediate return to the top flight last season doing it the hard way via the play-offs.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM PLAN RAID FOR YAKUBU
Thursday June 14,2012
By Daily Express reporter
WEST Ham manager Sam Allardyce is hoping to secure Blackburn striker Yakubu, according to reports. The 29-year-old striker will be able to leave Blackburn for as little as £1million due to a clause in his contract. Yakubu has been a key player for Blackburn putting 17 goals in the back of the net for the club this season. Meanwhile Blackburn boss Steven Kean wants to add club legend Colin Hendry to his coaching staff.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United target Blackburn Rovers striker Yakubu
by Jack Failsworth. Published Thu 14 Jun 2012 16:30, Last updated: 2012-06-1
Click Lancashire
According to reports West Ham United are interested in Blackburn Rovers striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni. The Daily Mail claims Hammers boss Sam Allardyce is ready to raid his former club for the marksman. The Nigerian has a £1 million buy-out clause in his contract and wants to stay in the Premier League despite interest from China and the Middle East.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nine players linked with signing for West Ham United this week
by Dan Coombs
@hitcdancoombs
Hereinthecity.com
Are West Ham about to go on a spending spree? The answer is yes if the papers are to be believed this week. Jussi Jaaskelainen has agreed terms and will replace the outgoing Rob Green when his Bolton contract expires on July 1. Here are NINE players who the papers claim could be joining him at Upton Park next season.
Matt Jarvis
West Ham have reportedly had an a £4 million bid for Matt Jarvis turned down by Wolves. It is hardly surprising as Wolves will want to get double that if they can for one of their prized assets. Jarvis will be a key man in Wolves promotion push so they do not need to sell. On the other hand Jarvis was in the England squad 15 months ago, and his ambition will see him keen to move on and become part of the international set up for the upcoming World qualifiers. He is 26 and would be a good signing for West Ham. He scored eight goals last season and other clubs may too be interested, including Villa and West Brom, so the Hammers are right to try and get in there early, but will have to up their offer while avoid overpaying.
Eljero Elia
Sam Allardyce has been spotted in Italy and is reported to be talking business with Italian champions Juventus. One of the players he is keen on is Dutch winger Eljero Elia. Elia is a Holland international who was part of their World Cup squad, creating a goal in their win over Denmark two years ago. A £7 million move from Hamburg to Juventus last summer was meant to be the next big step in his career but success has failed to materialise. The 25-year-old played just four games for the club, and has had a transfer request accepted. He is a left-winger and is clearly talented. He'd be a bargain if Big Sam can do the deal.
Milos Krasic
Another Juventus outcast West Ham are linked with is Milos Krasic. The Serb is 27 and after a decent debut season at the Italian club which saw him score a hat-trick his second season saw him fall out of favour, making seven appearances scoring one goal. He is a right sided player so there is the possibility the Hammers could get wingers for either flank in a double deal with Elia. Krasic has previously been linked with Chelsea, Tottenham and Liverpool but moves have failed to materialise- but Rodgers is said to be keen to bring him to Liverpool. He will want to avoid another season sitting on the bench and he would be a quality addition to the Hammers.
Mohamed Diame
Free agent Momo Diame is said to be in negotiations with West Ham after leaving Wigan Athletic. Diame has been courted by a number of clubs and was even reported to be on the verge of a move to Liverpool before Kenny Dalglish left the club. Sunderland are another club said to be keen, while Spaniards Malaga have also expressed an interest. The 24-year-old scored three goals last season and played an important role in Wigan's late push to avoid relegation. He clearly wants a big move and his agent will be working overtime, it is up to Allardyce to make him an offer and convince him West Ham are the club to spend his future with.
Victor Wanyama
Victor Wanyama will hope to become the first Kenyan to ever play in the Premier League if he sealed a deal with the Hammers. The 20-year-old central midfielder is at Celtic and scored four goals last season. He can also play in central defence and has already earned 18 international caps. He cost Celtic £1 million last summer but the Glasgow giants value him at six times that now. He is also interesting QPR, Newcastle, Liverpool and Stoke. He is known for his physical approach which saw him sent off against Rangers and pick up two bans at his previous club in Belgium. He could be a shrewd investment but the Hammers won't want to pay over the odds.
Danny Simpson
West Ham have been added to a line of clubs chasing Newcastle right-back Danny Simpson by regional newspaper the Northern Echo. Simpson is also being targeted by QPR, Fulham, and Norwich City and is expected to leave St James Park this summer. He feels the club's £25,000 a week offer is not enough and has dug his heels into such an extent both parties are looking elsewhere, with Newcastle busy scouting new right-backs. If West Ham could tempt him he would be an excellent addition, but right now there are no concrete developments.
Modibo Maiga
Do West Ham want to sign Modibo Maiga? The Mail is one of the papers which claims yes, adding that they lead the chase for the £4 million rated striker. Maiga plays for French side Sochaux and is a Mali international. He is 25 and scored nine goals in 17 starts last season - including five in his last seven matches. West Ham have Cole, Maynard and Vaz Te forming their strikeforce but will need to sign a fourth man. Whether Maiga is that man, and the one they need to keep them in the Premier League is another matter, but £4 million is a relatively low gamble.
Yakubu
Yakubu was Blackburn's ace last year who almost helped them avoid relegation. He scored 17 goals last season and is Rovers biggest asset. The Lancashire Telegraph last night claimed that West Ham could sign him for a cut-price £1 million thanks to a relegation clause in his contract. After losing Demba Ba on a free in similar circumstances a year ago, it would be sweet for West Ham to turn the tables and back a bargain themselves.
Luc Castaignos
The Mirror is reporting that Inter Milan striker Luc Castaignos is the third Italian based transfer target for the Hammers. Castaignos is only 19 and was hailed a year ago as Europe's next big striker but has failed to settle so far in Italy. He has been linked with a move back to Holland with Feyenoord, but Allardyce would do well to enquire as reports suggest.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Tickets for the pre-season meeting with German side FC Rot-Weiß Erfurt are now available to Hammers supporters
13.06.2012
West Ham United fans can purchase tickets for the pre-season match at German club FC Rot-Weiß Erfurt now. The Hammers will travel to the Steigerwaldstadion for what promises to be a mouth-watering fixture against the 3.Liga side on Wednesday 25 July, with kick-off at 7pm local time. West Ham supporters have been allocated the Stehplatz-Block 2 terrace, with standing tickets priced at €15 Adults and €13.50 for Concessions. Hammers fans have also been allocated seats in section F priced at €18 for Adults and €16 for Concessions.
The match is one of three taking place during West Ham's pre-season trip to Germany. Sam Allardyce and his squad head to mainland Europe on 23 July before taking on Rot-Weiß Erfurt (25 July), Dynamo Dresden (27 July) and FC Energie Cottbus (29 July).
Rot-Weiß Erfurt finished fifth in the 3.Liga table, just two points off the automatic promotion places, and lost just nine of their 38 league matches. The club twice won the East German Premier League title in 1954 and 1955 and were twice East German Cup runners-up in 1950 and 1980. Among the club's first-team squad is Englishman and former Reading full-back Rhys Tyler.
The Hammers have a number of links with Germany, having beaten TSV 1860 Munich 2-0 in the 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup final at Wembley and been represented by German international Thomas Hitzlsperger.
While they have never met Rot-Weiß Erfurt or Energie Cottbus previously, the Hammers met Dresden in August 1986, when John Lyall's side defeated the then-East
German giants 2-1 at the FC Groningen Tournament in the Netherlands through goals from Tony Cottee and Frank McAvennie. Twenty-six years later and the two sides will meet again.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Barnet sign goalkeeper Sam Cowler from West Ham United
BBc.co.uk
Barnet have signed young goalkeeper Sam Cowler from West Ham United. The 19-year-old spent time playing in the League Two side's youth team while on loan last season. Bees head coach Mark Robson said: "He may be young, but he's a tall kid and what I like about him, along with his ability, is his attitude. "I can see that he will be pushing whoever is in front of him for a first team place. That's the kind of competition I want to see in my team." He added: "It's important we begin adding to the squad, and I'm pleased to see that's started with Sam."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Transfer latest: 14 June
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 14th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are said to have had a £4million bid for Wolves winger Matt Jarvis rejected, according to reports. Sky Sports 'understand' that United saw an offer for the 26-year-old Middlesbrough born player rejected by the relegated club yesterday. Elsewhere this morning, several sources continue to suggest potential Italian-based targets after Sam Allardyce was apparently spotted meeting with representatives of Juventus and Milan on Tuesday. Both Dutch and Italian sources have linked West Ham with a possible move for Luc Castaignos in the past 24 hours, a name we first mentioned here on KUMB in our transfer round-up on Tuesday. 19-year-old Castaignos hit 15 goals in 37 starts for Feyenoord before landing a €6.5million switch to the Italian giants last summer, but made just six first team appearances in his first season at the San Siro. West Ham are said to want to take the Dutch teenager on a permanent basis although Inter are rumoured to prefer a loan move.
Meanwhile the Daily Mail, who told us on Tuesday that West Ham were willing to offer £4million for Norwich's Grant Holt - two weeks after they claimed a £4.5million bid had been rejected - have ressurected the Yakubu link. However another source, a Twitter-based football agent claimed last night that the Blackburn striker is instead on his way to Qatar. Momo Diame, who has been at the centre of much gossip in the last 48 hours is said to be jetting into England tomorrow in order to hold talks with West Ham - and possibly one or two other clubs. The Wigan midfielder, who becomes a free agent at the end of this month has also been linked with Liverpool and the now-managerless Tottenham in the past few days.
The Daily Star, not exactly renowned for their transfer exclusives suggest that West Ham are 'ready to make a £3million bid' for ex-Hammer James Collins, currently earning vast sums at Aston Villa. The Welsh international, despite being labelled by many as 'the one that got away' managed an average of just 16 appearances per season during his four years in east London from 2006 to 2010 before joining Villa in a £4million switch. We're really scraping the barrel this morning for outgoings, but gossip that appears to have begun somewhere on Twitter's vast network hints at interest in Freds Sears and Piquionne from Hull City. Now managed by Steve Bruce, who succeeded the departing Nick Barmby last week the Tigers are looking to boost their squad in preparation for an assault on next season's Championship. So why they're looking at Piquionne, God only knows... As for KUMB.com, we've heard absolutely nothing new on the transfer front in the past 24 hours so have nothing more than the above speculation to offer you today. Sorry.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Return of James Collins?
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
The Daily Star reports this morning that we have lodged a bid of £3 million for former Hammers defender James Collins, who is entering the last year of his contract. Collins impressed during his time at West Ham and has been an important player for Villa, but I wonder whether this would really be good business for us. On the face of it he is the right age - 28 - but he is very injury prone. In his career so far, he has only made 211 appearances. He does, however, chip in with the odd goal. Could he make a good partner for James Tomkins? I'm undecided, so I'll let you debate the merits!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam's Gut feeling
The Sun
Published: Today at 00:21
SAM ALLARDYCE has made a bold move to make former Real Madrid star Guti his first signing of the summer. The West Ham manager will take the Spaniard on his club's pre-season tour of Austria. And if the 35-year-old can prove his fitness he will get a two-year deal at Upton Park. Guti is available on a free and has been without a club since Turkish side Besiktas released him in November last year. Barry O'Connor, who looks after Guti's affairs in England, said:: "West Ham will make a final decision before the next season starts. I cannot discuss what terms could be offered." Guti has made more than 500 appearances and is one of Spain's most decorated players. He won 15 trophies for Real, including three Champions League titles and five league wins. Allardyce wants to add another cool head to his squad as he builds his squad for the Premier League. The Hammers made an immediate return to the top flight last season doing it the hard way via the play-offs.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM PLAN RAID FOR YAKUBU
Thursday June 14,2012
By Daily Express reporter
WEST Ham manager Sam Allardyce is hoping to secure Blackburn striker Yakubu, according to reports. The 29-year-old striker will be able to leave Blackburn for as little as £1million due to a clause in his contract. Yakubu has been a key player for Blackburn putting 17 goals in the back of the net for the club this season. Meanwhile Blackburn boss Steven Kean wants to add club legend Colin Hendry to his coaching staff.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United target Blackburn Rovers striker Yakubu
by Jack Failsworth. Published Thu 14 Jun 2012 16:30, Last updated: 2012-06-1
Click Lancashire
According to reports West Ham United are interested in Blackburn Rovers striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni. The Daily Mail claims Hammers boss Sam Allardyce is ready to raid his former club for the marksman. The Nigerian has a £1 million buy-out clause in his contract and wants to stay in the Premier League despite interest from China and the Middle East.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nine players linked with signing for West Ham United this week
by Dan Coombs
@hitcdancoombs
Hereinthecity.com
Are West Ham about to go on a spending spree? The answer is yes if the papers are to be believed this week. Jussi Jaaskelainen has agreed terms and will replace the outgoing Rob Green when his Bolton contract expires on July 1. Here are NINE players who the papers claim could be joining him at Upton Park next season.
Matt Jarvis
West Ham have reportedly had an a £4 million bid for Matt Jarvis turned down by Wolves. It is hardly surprising as Wolves will want to get double that if they can for one of their prized assets. Jarvis will be a key man in Wolves promotion push so they do not need to sell. On the other hand Jarvis was in the England squad 15 months ago, and his ambition will see him keen to move on and become part of the international set up for the upcoming World qualifiers. He is 26 and would be a good signing for West Ham. He scored eight goals last season and other clubs may too be interested, including Villa and West Brom, so the Hammers are right to try and get in there early, but will have to up their offer while avoid overpaying.
Eljero Elia
Sam Allardyce has been spotted in Italy and is reported to be talking business with Italian champions Juventus. One of the players he is keen on is Dutch winger Eljero Elia. Elia is a Holland international who was part of their World Cup squad, creating a goal in their win over Denmark two years ago. A £7 million move from Hamburg to Juventus last summer was meant to be the next big step in his career but success has failed to materialise. The 25-year-old played just four games for the club, and has had a transfer request accepted. He is a left-winger and is clearly talented. He'd be a bargain if Big Sam can do the deal.
Milos Krasic
Another Juventus outcast West Ham are linked with is Milos Krasic. The Serb is 27 and after a decent debut season at the Italian club which saw him score a hat-trick his second season saw him fall out of favour, making seven appearances scoring one goal. He is a right sided player so there is the possibility the Hammers could get wingers for either flank in a double deal with Elia. Krasic has previously been linked with Chelsea, Tottenham and Liverpool but moves have failed to materialise- but Rodgers is said to be keen to bring him to Liverpool. He will want to avoid another season sitting on the bench and he would be a quality addition to the Hammers.
Mohamed Diame
Free agent Momo Diame is said to be in negotiations with West Ham after leaving Wigan Athletic. Diame has been courted by a number of clubs and was even reported to be on the verge of a move to Liverpool before Kenny Dalglish left the club. Sunderland are another club said to be keen, while Spaniards Malaga have also expressed an interest. The 24-year-old scored three goals last season and played an important role in Wigan's late push to avoid relegation. He clearly wants a big move and his agent will be working overtime, it is up to Allardyce to make him an offer and convince him West Ham are the club to spend his future with.
Victor Wanyama
Victor Wanyama will hope to become the first Kenyan to ever play in the Premier League if he sealed a deal with the Hammers. The 20-year-old central midfielder is at Celtic and scored four goals last season. He can also play in central defence and has already earned 18 international caps. He cost Celtic £1 million last summer but the Glasgow giants value him at six times that now. He is also interesting QPR, Newcastle, Liverpool and Stoke. He is known for his physical approach which saw him sent off against Rangers and pick up two bans at his previous club in Belgium. He could be a shrewd investment but the Hammers won't want to pay over the odds.
Danny Simpson
West Ham have been added to a line of clubs chasing Newcastle right-back Danny Simpson by regional newspaper the Northern Echo. Simpson is also being targeted by QPR, Fulham, and Norwich City and is expected to leave St James Park this summer. He feels the club's £25,000 a week offer is not enough and has dug his heels into such an extent both parties are looking elsewhere, with Newcastle busy scouting new right-backs. If West Ham could tempt him he would be an excellent addition, but right now there are no concrete developments.
Modibo Maiga
Do West Ham want to sign Modibo Maiga? The Mail is one of the papers which claims yes, adding that they lead the chase for the £4 million rated striker. Maiga plays for French side Sochaux and is a Mali international. He is 25 and scored nine goals in 17 starts last season - including five in his last seven matches. West Ham have Cole, Maynard and Vaz Te forming their strikeforce but will need to sign a fourth man. Whether Maiga is that man, and the one they need to keep them in the Premier League is another matter, but £4 million is a relatively low gamble.
Yakubu
Yakubu was Blackburn's ace last year who almost helped them avoid relegation. He scored 17 goals last season and is Rovers biggest asset. The Lancashire Telegraph last night claimed that West Ham could sign him for a cut-price £1 million thanks to a relegation clause in his contract. After losing Demba Ba on a free in similar circumstances a year ago, it would be sweet for West Ham to turn the tables and back a bargain themselves.
Luc Castaignos
The Mirror is reporting that Inter Milan striker Luc Castaignos is the third Italian based transfer target for the Hammers. Castaignos is only 19 and was hailed a year ago as Europe's next big striker but has failed to settle so far in Italy. He has been linked with a move back to Holland with Feyenoord, but Allardyce would do well to enquire as reports suggest.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, June 14
Daily WHUFC News - 4th June 2012
Jussi agrees terms
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have agreed personal terms with experienced goalkeeper Jussi
Jaaskelainen
13.06.2012
West Ham United are pleased to confirm that vastly-experienced goalkeeper
Jussi Jaaskelainen has agreed personal terms with the Club. The former
Finland international has played more than 500 games in English football
since joining Bolton Wanderers in the summer of 1997. The 37-year-old, who
has been capped 56 times by his country, has agreed personal terms with the
Hammers on a one-year contract with an option for a second year and will
move to the Boleyn Ground at the expiry of his Trotters deal on 30 June.
Jaaskelainen will be the second goalkeeper to move to the Club this summer
following the arrival of Stephen Henderson. With the Hammers preparing for
life in the Barclays Premier League, the pair are expected to be the first
of a host of exciting new signings. The goalkeeper played more than 100
games for Mikkelin Palloilijat and Vaasan Palloseura in his native Finland
before joining Bolton in 1997 for a fee of just £100,000. After helping Sam
Allardyce's side gain promotion to the Premier League via the Play-Offs in
2001, the 6'3 tall stopper helped to establish Bolton as a top-flight force
during the past decade, achieving four consecutive top-eight finishes
between 2003/04 and 2006/07.
Jaaskelainen was also instrumental in helping the Lancashire club to finish
as 2004 League Cup runners-up and twice reach the knockout stages of the
UEFA Cup. While at the Reebok Stadium, the Finn played regularly alongside
the likes of Kevin Nolan, Joey O'Brien and Matt Taylor. In all, Jaaskelainen
made 371 Premier League appearances for Bolton and was voted the club's
Player of the Year in 2007. The same year, he was also voted Finnish
Footballer of the Year. Jaaskelainen said: "I'm delighted to be joining West
Ham United. After spending 15 years in Bolton it's a great new challenge and
I'm really looking forward to it. Everything has happened really quickly.
When the opportunity was offered to come to West Ham I didn't think twice
and I just told my agent to sort it out as quickly as possible.
"I appreciate Bolton giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my
contract was up and for the efforts the Chairman made in trying to get me to
stay. I would like to thank the fans for all their support over the years
and I wish the players and, in particular, Owen Coyle all the best in
gaining promotion at the first attempt."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dutch master so nearly a Hammer
WHUFC.com
Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk played a trial match for West Ham United
back in August 1978
13.06.2012
Netherlands coach and former international winger Bert van Marwijk could
have joined West Ham United in 1978. Tonight, Van Marwijk leads the Oranje
into a must-win 2012 UEFA European Championship Group B fixture against old
rivals Germany, but most spectators will not be aware that he once ran out
in the claret and blue. Now 60, he played in a trial match for the Hammers
at Colchester United back on 7 August of that year, but a rumoured £100,000
transfer from AZ Alkmaar 67 failed to materialise and the Dutch master
joined Dutch champions MVV Maastricht instead. Then 26, the goalscoring
wideman had just lifted the Dutch Cup with AZ, but was keen to move on in
the summer of 1978 and took the opportunity to trial for John Lyall's side
at Layer Road The Newham Recorder reported that Van Marwijk - who wore the
No6 shirt - had a decent game in a match that ended in a 2-2 draw: "He
displayed some neat touches, good positional sense and shrewd distribution
but having not played since the Dutch season ended three months ago, was
clearly well short of match fitness."
A 2,720-strong crowd were on hand to watch the game, which saw Trevor
Brooking score both goals for a West Ham team that also included Mervyn Day,
Frank Lampard, Paul Brush, Billy Bonds, Alan Devonshire, Pat Holland, Geoff
Pike and Bryan 'Pop' Robson. Instead of moving to east London, he would
spend eight seasons with Maastricht and made a total of 393 Eredivisie
appearances before hanging up his boots in 1988. After working with the
youth teams at Maastricht and FC Herderen, Van Marwijk became manager at
RKVCL Limmel in 1991. From there, he has coached SV Meerssen, Fortuna
Sittard, Feyenoord and German giants BVB Borussia Dortmund.
The highlights of Van Marwijk's club career saw him win the Dutch Cup and
UEFA Cup with Feyenoord - successes that saw him appointed as Netherlands
national team coach in 2008. The one-time Hammer led the Dutch to the 2010
FIFA World Cup final, where they were narrowly beaten by Spain, before
guiding them to the current UEFA European Championship finals in Poland and
Ukraine. *This story first appeared on the independent West Ham United
online museum website They Fly So High. The website's curators Steve Marsh
and Stuart Allen contribute the popular Hammerabilia feature in the official
matchday programme.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tomkins in Team GB frame
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins is in Team GB's provisional 35-man squad for London 2012
12.06.2012
James Tomkins has moved a step closer to becoming an Olympian after being
named in Team GB's provisional 35-man squad for London 2012. The West Ham
United defender, 23, has enjoyed a fantastic year so far, helping the
Hammers to gain promotion to the Barclays Premier League and being voted
into the PFA Championship Team of the Year by his fellow professionals.
Tomkins was also voted Hammer of the Year runner-up after a 2011/12 season
that saw him make 45 appearances and score four goals for the club he joined
at the age of seven. The Basildon-born centre-back will now wait to learn if
he has been included in Stuart Pearce's final 18-man squad for the Olympic
football tournament, which will be announced during the first week of July.
The No5 is excited about the prospect of representing Team GB, saying: "I
would be very proud to represent Great Britain in the Olympics, as I am sure
the other lads would be as well. It would be a great honour. I have always
been really proud to represent my country (England) before and this would be
another proud moment for me. "At the moment, all we know is that we could be
selected but there is process to go through first so we don't know if we
would be chosen, but to be in the hat is a great thing. "With the Olympics
also being in London, it gives it an extra attraction - as everyone knows,
it is right on our doorstep and I am sure our fans are excited about the
Olympics being here as well, it should be an exciting time for London. Being
a London club, it is right in our community and that can only be a good
thing."
Tomkins has already been selected for two major competitions by Pearce,
having appeared for England at the 2009 and 2011 UEFA European Under-21
hampionship finals. Prior to that, he also represented England at the 2005
UEFA European Under-17 Championship and 2008 UEFA European Under-19
Championship. In the group stage at London 2012, Team GB will take on
Senegal at Old Trafford on 26 July, United Arab Emirates at Wembley on 29
July and Uruguay at the Millennium Stadium on 1 August. Sixteen nations are
taking part in the Olympic tournament, with the final to be played at
Wembley on Saturday 11 August - a week before the start of the 2012/13
Barclays Premier League season. Should he be selected, Tomkins could be one
of two West Ham players taking part at London 2012. Winston Reid could be
included by New Zealand should he recover from the groin injury that has
ruled him out of the OFC Nations Cup tournament currently taking place in
the Solomon Islands.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Barrera enjoys second World Cup win
WHUFC.com
Pablo Barrera's Mexico won 2-1 in El Salvador in their second 2014 FIFA
World Cup qualifier
13.06.2012
Pablo Barrera's Mexico continued their perfect start to their 2014 FIFA
World Cup CONCACAF third round Group B qualifying campaign by winning 2-1 in
El Salvador on Tuesday. The West Ham United winger, who played for 65
minutes as Guyana were beaten 3-1 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City last
Friday, was a starter again at the Estadio Cuscatlan in San Salvador. The
25-year-old played for 87 minutes as goals from Jesus Eduardo Zavala and
Hector Moreno saw Mexico go two points clear at the top of the Group B
table. Barrera has now earned 49 senior caps for Mexico since making his
debut at the age of 20 in a friendly meeting with Guatemala in October 2007,
scoring six goals. He appeared three times at the 2010 FIFA World Cup finals
in South Africa and was part of the squads which won the 2009 and 2011
CONCACAF Gold Cups. Mexico are seeking to qualify for their 15th FIFA World
Cup finals, having reached the tournament every time it has been held since
1994. Next up, Jose Manuel de la Torre's side travel to Costa Rica on 7
September before welcoming the same opposition on 11 September. The third
round concludes with a trip to Guyana on 12 October and the visit of El
Salvador on 16 October. The CONCACAF region also contains previous FIFA
World Cup finals participants United States, Jamaica and Canada, as well as
2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers Honduras. The top two nations in each of
three third-round groups will qualify for the fourth round group-stage,
where six teams will battle for three automatic qualifying places and one
intercontinental play-off berth against the first-place Oceania side -
likely to be Winston Reid's New Zealand.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United to sign Jussi Jaaskelainen from Bolton
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United will sign goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen at the end of his
Bolton Wanderers contract on 1 July. The former Finland international, 37,
played 529 games for Wanderers after arriving in 1997. He will link up with
former Bolton boss Sam Allardyce on a one-year deal, with the option for a
further 12 months.
"After spending 15 years in Bolton, it's a great new challenge and I'm
looking forward to it," Jaaskelainen told West Ham's official website.
Jussi Jaaskelainen factfile
Born: Mikkeli, Finland on 19 April 1975
Clubs: 1992-95 Mikkelin Palloilijat, 1996-97 Vassan Palloseura, 1997-2012
Bolton Wanderers
Finland caps: 56
"Everything has happened really quickly. When the opportunity was offered to
come to West Ham, I didn't think twice and I just told my agent to sort it
out as quickly as possible." Jaaskelainen was brought to Bolton by
then-manager Colin Todd from Finnish club Vassan Palloseura for £100,000. He
was a key figure at the Reebok Stadium as Allardyce guided Bolton to the
Premier League via the play-offs in 2001, and was first choice for more than
a decade. However, he lost his place to Adam Bogdan last season as Owen
Coyle's side were relegated to the Championship. Jaaskelainen added: "I
appreciate Bolton giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my
contract was up and for the efforts the chairman made in trying to get me to
stay. "I would like to thank the fans for all their support over the years
and I wish the players and, in particular, Owen Coyle all the best in
gaining promotion at the first attempt."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Demel: my wages were halved
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 13th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham right-back Guy Demel has told a German newspaper that he took a 50
per cent wage cut to move to England. The French-born Ivorian defender, who
celebrates his 31st birthday today revealed that he agreed to take the
massive pay cut in order to move to east London last August having become
frustrated with life at his previous club, Hamburg SV. In response to a
question regarding his move to England and rumours that the deal was
financially motivated, Demel said: "People were saying I had lost interest;
people were saying I was only in it for the money. You know what? I took a
50 per cent paycut when I went to West Ham.
"I still had a contract at Hamburg. If it was all about the money for me I
could have sat it out in Hamburg collecting all that money for doing
nothing. But I gave my all for the shirt, the team and the supporters for
six years."
Looking back on a season that was wrecked by injury, Demel insisted that his
problems were largely due to a lack of fitness that began with him featuring
so infrequently for Hamburg in his final season in Germany. "Since I was no
longer allowed to keep myself fit with the first team, my body could no
longer take the vigours of high level football," he argued. "My stamina was
low so I couldn't play for a whole 90 minutes. So when I started out in
England, I got my comeuppance."
However now he appears to have fully recovered from his injury woes, Demel
insists that he can't wait to get his full full season in English football
under his belt.
""It's fantastic [here]," he added. "I've been very lucky as I had the
chance to play for six years in the most beautiful city in Germany - and I
feel privileged that my job allows me to live in a place like London. "It
was my goal to play in the Premier League again; now I'm finally there, it's
a great feeling. I want to help establish West Ham as a Premier League club
and I want to play in this league for another two or three years. "When you
have played for a good team in the Bundesliga as I did you are capable of
playing in any league in the world. The level of football in England is very
high as it is in Hamburg. But it's true that the style of football is
different, especially here at West Ham where we play a lot of long ball and
high crosses up front."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
In short...
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 13th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
Local filmmaker Mitch Panayis has released a film short commemorating West
Ham's trip to Wembley on 19th May. The 15-minute film - entitled "They Fly
So High - an East End Outing" - concentrates on supporters both before and
during the day itself, which saw United book an instant return to the
Premier League courtesy of a 2-1 win over Blackpool in the Championship
play-off Final. Speaking to KUMB.com, Mitch revealed the motivation behind
his decision to document West Ham's big day out. "I am a local filmmaker
from Forest Gate who has been documenting the impact of the Olympic Games on
East London for the last three years, with a Documentary due to be released
at the end of this year," he said. "This has centered around Queens Market
in Upton Park. "West Ham as a team and a club has been the topic of many
discussions held at the market between myself and the traders, in particular
the recent relegation and the potential move from Upton Park to the Olympic
Stadium. "Greg, a life long friend of mine and West Ham season ticket
holder, also had strong opinions of the move. When the team reached the
play-off Final, it seemed a natural progression for us to record and
document the fans' perspective of the match in the context of moving away
from Upton Park. "After looking at the footage we believed it was strong
enough to stand alone as a short film in itself, for two reasons. Firstly,
it had its own clear narrative and, we felt, captured the true essence of
going to a game, in particular as an East End day out to a stadium of such
history. "And secondly, because films of this nature are surprisingly few
and far between - when in fact there is a huge audience with an interest in
this type of film, both journalistic and entertainment-wise. "Parts of this
film will be included in the final feature length documentary due out later
this year."
http://www.kumb.com/story.php?id=126294
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wanyama open to move
Celtic starlet linked with big money transfer
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated: June
13, 2012 11:08am
SSN
Celtic starlet Victor Wanyama is a target for a host of Premier League clubs
and is hopeful of sealing a move to England this summer, Sky Sports
understands.
Liverpool, Stoke City, Queens Park Rangers, Newcastle and West Ham United
are all interested in landing the Kenyan midfielder. Wanyama joined Celtic
last summer from Belgian side Beerschot AC but his impact has been huge at
Parkhead. Celtic paid less than £1million for the 20-year-old but now a fee
in excess of £6million is being talked about for Wanyama. Clubs in Italy,
Spain and France have all been impressed by Wanyama, but he is understood to
be keen on a move to the Premier League.
Opportunities
Now Wanyama is ready to move from Celtic and his business manager Rob Moore
has explained that he hopes the club would listen to offers if they came.
"That has been a lot of talk which is not necessarily true," Moore explained
to Sky Sports. "But he is like any other young talented footballer in that
he wants to play at the highest level. "He has made the club aware that if
they receive an offer from one of the big leagues he would like them to
consider it. "He is not unhappy at Celtic, far from it - he loves the club
and everything has been great for him since he moved but should something
come in he feels they should listen."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers confirm Jussi
Veteran keeper teams up with old boss Sam Allardyce again
Last Updated: June 13, 2012 3:13pm
SSN
West Ham have confirmed experienced keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen has agreed
personal terms with the club. As revealed by skysports.com earlier on
Wednesday, the 37-year-old has returned to the Premier League after turning
down the chance to remain at Bolton following the Trotters' relegation last
season. He will move to the Hammers when his Bolton deal expires on 30 June
on a one-year contract, with an option for a second year. The experienced
keeper told the club's official website: "I'm delighted to be joining West
Ham United.
New challenge
"After spending 15 years in Bolton it's a great new challenge and I'm really
looking forward to it. " "Everything has happened really quickly. When the
opportunity was offered to come to West Ham I didn't think twice and I just
told my agent to sort it out as quickly as possible. "I appreciate Bolton
giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my contract was up and for
the efforts the chairman made in trying to get me to stay. "I would like to
thank the fans for all their support over the years and I wish the players
and, in particular, Owen Coyle all the best in gaining promotion at the
first attempt."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wolves reject Jarvis bid
West Ham keen to keep England international in Premier League
Last Updated: June 13, 2012 7:10pm
SSN
Sky Sports sources understand Wolves have rejected a bid for winger Matt
Jarvis from West Ham. Wolves were relegated from the Premier League last
season and face a battle to hold onto their best players. Jarvis certainly
falls into that category having become the first Wolves player in over 20
years to play for England when Fabio Capello capped him in March 2011.
Newly-promoted West Ham are understood to have targeted the 26-year-old and
made an offer for the former Gillingham man believed to be in the region of
£4million. But Jarvis is under contract until 2015 and that leaves Wolves in
a strong negotiating position. Chief executive Jez Moxey has already
outlined his intention to fight for the best deal he can get, while
admitting the club is resigned to losing some of their star names. He told
the Express and Star: "We are not naive. We know clubs will want our best
players but we are ready to do battle with anyone. In some ways, there's
nothing I enjoy more."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jussi Signs, Diame in Talks, But Don't Get Your Hopes Up On Demba Ba
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
So, as expected Jussi Jaaskelainen becomes the second goalkeeper signing of
the summer. I think most of us agree that we need a third, which will
hopefully be Paul Robinson or David Stockdale. Diame is the next one the
list, and it appears that discussions are going well. A source inside the
club confirmed to me yesterday that talks were ongoing. The same source
poured scorn on some of the speculation on Twitter about summer signings, so
I think we all need to be very sceptical about some of the players being
touted by one or two members of the Twitterarti. It seems clear that we are
looking abroad for most of our signings because English players are too
expensive both in terms of fees and wages. Take Matt Jarvis. We're looking
to bid £4 million for him, yet Wolves value him at £10 million. I suspect we
may miss out on Jordan Rhodes for similar reasons.
The club also want to sell Piquionne and Freddie Sears, but there is no one
out there who really wants them and prepared to take on their current wages.
Piquionne is on £36-£38k a week. No one in their right mind would take that
on, so it is clear that if West Ham want both players to leave, there will
have to be a financial incentive for them to do so. It's the economics of
the madhouse, but it's all too typical in the current world of football, as
former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan demonstrates in his excellent new
autobiography BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR.
I'm afraid that all those who think there's any chance of Demba Ba returning
can think again. Apparently on top of an £8 million fee, he would want £70k
a week plus a very large fee for his agent. And then there's his knee. Way
too risky. Part of me hopes I have to eat these words, but it just isn't
going to happen.
There's a lot of talk about Krasic from Juventus and Neymar from Santos. I'd
like to believe either might be true, but I really don't know.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jaaskelainen says Juss to Hammers
The Sun
Published: 13th June 2012
JUSSI JAASKELAINEN has joined West Ham after agreeing personal terms with
the club. The veteran keeper will move to the Boleyn Ground on a free
transfer after his contract with Bolton expires on June 30. Jaaskelainen,
37, has signed a one-year contract with an option of a second year. He will
team up with his former boss Sam Allardyce at the Hammers. The former
Finland international said: "I'm delighted to be joining West Ham United.
"After spending 15 years in Bolton it's a great new challenge and I'm really
looking forward to it. "Everything has happened really quickly. When the
opportunity was offered to come to West Ham I didn't think twice and I just
told my agent to sort it out as quickly as possible. "I appreciate Bolton
giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my contract was up and for
the efforts the chairman made in trying to get me to stay. "I would like to
thank the fans for all their support over the years and I wish the players
and, in particular, Owen Coyle all the best in gaining promotion at the
first attempt." West Ham have swooped for Jaaskelainen after current No1
Robert Green expressed his desire to leave the newly-promoted side.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Yak raid
The Sun
By MARTIN BLACKBURN
Published: 13th June 2012
SAM ALLARDYCE is plotting a raid for Blackburn top-scorer Yakubu. The
Nigerian striker, 29, has a clause in his contract which allows him to leave
for just £1million.
West Ham boss Allardyce would relish getting one over on his Ewood Park
successor Steve Kean by nicking his 17-goal hitman on the cheap. Big Sam has
also agreed a deal for Bolton's Finnish goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen, 37,
to join his Premier League new boys on a free.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers want Krasic and Elia
FootballBuster.com
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce met with Juventus directors on Tuesday aiming
to sign Eljero Elia and Milos Krasic. Allardyce met with Juve director Fabio
Paratici and the Hammers have confirmed to ESPN that the manager was there
to discuss the futures of want-away wingers Krasic and Elia. Elia is seeking
to move on after a hugely disappointing debut season at Juve, while Serbia
international Krasic has also found himself down the pecking order. West Ham
had earlier attempted to sign Wolves wingers Matt Jarvis and Michael Kightly
following their relegation, but a Hammers insider told ESPN: "West Ham have
tried but Wolves don't want to sell Jarvis or Kightly." West Ham have also
given up on Yossi Benayoun, who is expected to announce his departure from
Chelsea. Ajax and Maccabi Haifa remain interested in the Israeli.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce plans Yakubu raid as West Ham boss continues to build for Premier
League return
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:40, 13 June 2012 | UPDATED: 22:40, 13 June 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is ready to raid former club Blackburn for
striker Yakubu and will hold talks with Mohamed Diame on Friday. Yakubu has
a £1million buy-out clause in his contract and wants to stay in the Premier
League despite interest from China and the Middle East. Former Wigan
midfielder Diame, 24, is due to fly in for talks on Friday ahead of a
weekend medical but is also expecting to talk to three other Premier League
clubs. Allardyce met Juventus officials in Italy on Tuesday to discuss
potential loans for Milos Krasic and Eljero Elia after being priced out of
moves for Wolves duo Matt Jarvis and Michael Kightly.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM SET TO SIGN WIGAN FREE-AGENT MOHAMED DIAME
Express.co.uk
Wednesday June 13,2012
By Daily Express reporter
WEST HAM are now favourites to sign Wigan midfielder Mohamed Diame after it
was revealed the club were holding a second round of talks. The defensive
midfidler is available on a free transfer after deciding to leave Wigan. It
had been believed that he was set for a move to Livepool but the newly
promoted Hammers beat them to it.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have agreed personal terms with experienced goalkeeper Jussi
Jaaskelainen
13.06.2012
West Ham United are pleased to confirm that vastly-experienced goalkeeper
Jussi Jaaskelainen has agreed personal terms with the Club. The former
Finland international has played more than 500 games in English football
since joining Bolton Wanderers in the summer of 1997. The 37-year-old, who
has been capped 56 times by his country, has agreed personal terms with the
Hammers on a one-year contract with an option for a second year and will
move to the Boleyn Ground at the expiry of his Trotters deal on 30 June.
Jaaskelainen will be the second goalkeeper to move to the Club this summer
following the arrival of Stephen Henderson. With the Hammers preparing for
life in the Barclays Premier League, the pair are expected to be the first
of a host of exciting new signings. The goalkeeper played more than 100
games for Mikkelin Palloilijat and Vaasan Palloseura in his native Finland
before joining Bolton in 1997 for a fee of just £100,000. After helping Sam
Allardyce's side gain promotion to the Premier League via the Play-Offs in
2001, the 6'3 tall stopper helped to establish Bolton as a top-flight force
during the past decade, achieving four consecutive top-eight finishes
between 2003/04 and 2006/07.
Jaaskelainen was also instrumental in helping the Lancashire club to finish
as 2004 League Cup runners-up and twice reach the knockout stages of the
UEFA Cup. While at the Reebok Stadium, the Finn played regularly alongside
the likes of Kevin Nolan, Joey O'Brien and Matt Taylor. In all, Jaaskelainen
made 371 Premier League appearances for Bolton and was voted the club's
Player of the Year in 2007. The same year, he was also voted Finnish
Footballer of the Year. Jaaskelainen said: "I'm delighted to be joining West
Ham United. After spending 15 years in Bolton it's a great new challenge and
I'm really looking forward to it. Everything has happened really quickly.
When the opportunity was offered to come to West Ham I didn't think twice
and I just told my agent to sort it out as quickly as possible.
"I appreciate Bolton giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my
contract was up and for the efforts the Chairman made in trying to get me to
stay. I would like to thank the fans for all their support over the years
and I wish the players and, in particular, Owen Coyle all the best in
gaining promotion at the first attempt."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dutch master so nearly a Hammer
WHUFC.com
Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk played a trial match for West Ham United
back in August 1978
13.06.2012
Netherlands coach and former international winger Bert van Marwijk could
have joined West Ham United in 1978. Tonight, Van Marwijk leads the Oranje
into a must-win 2012 UEFA European Championship Group B fixture against old
rivals Germany, but most spectators will not be aware that he once ran out
in the claret and blue. Now 60, he played in a trial match for the Hammers
at Colchester United back on 7 August of that year, but a rumoured £100,000
transfer from AZ Alkmaar 67 failed to materialise and the Dutch master
joined Dutch champions MVV Maastricht instead. Then 26, the goalscoring
wideman had just lifted the Dutch Cup with AZ, but was keen to move on in
the summer of 1978 and took the opportunity to trial for John Lyall's side
at Layer Road The Newham Recorder reported that Van Marwijk - who wore the
No6 shirt - had a decent game in a match that ended in a 2-2 draw: "He
displayed some neat touches, good positional sense and shrewd distribution
but having not played since the Dutch season ended three months ago, was
clearly well short of match fitness."
A 2,720-strong crowd were on hand to watch the game, which saw Trevor
Brooking score both goals for a West Ham team that also included Mervyn Day,
Frank Lampard, Paul Brush, Billy Bonds, Alan Devonshire, Pat Holland, Geoff
Pike and Bryan 'Pop' Robson. Instead of moving to east London, he would
spend eight seasons with Maastricht and made a total of 393 Eredivisie
appearances before hanging up his boots in 1988. After working with the
youth teams at Maastricht and FC Herderen, Van Marwijk became manager at
RKVCL Limmel in 1991. From there, he has coached SV Meerssen, Fortuna
Sittard, Feyenoord and German giants BVB Borussia Dortmund.
The highlights of Van Marwijk's club career saw him win the Dutch Cup and
UEFA Cup with Feyenoord - successes that saw him appointed as Netherlands
national team coach in 2008. The one-time Hammer led the Dutch to the 2010
FIFA World Cup final, where they were narrowly beaten by Spain, before
guiding them to the current UEFA European Championship finals in Poland and
Ukraine. *This story first appeared on the independent West Ham United
online museum website They Fly So High. The website's curators Steve Marsh
and Stuart Allen contribute the popular Hammerabilia feature in the official
matchday programme.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tomkins in Team GB frame
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins is in Team GB's provisional 35-man squad for London 2012
12.06.2012
James Tomkins has moved a step closer to becoming an Olympian after being
named in Team GB's provisional 35-man squad for London 2012. The West Ham
United defender, 23, has enjoyed a fantastic year so far, helping the
Hammers to gain promotion to the Barclays Premier League and being voted
into the PFA Championship Team of the Year by his fellow professionals.
Tomkins was also voted Hammer of the Year runner-up after a 2011/12 season
that saw him make 45 appearances and score four goals for the club he joined
at the age of seven. The Basildon-born centre-back will now wait to learn if
he has been included in Stuart Pearce's final 18-man squad for the Olympic
football tournament, which will be announced during the first week of July.
The No5 is excited about the prospect of representing Team GB, saying: "I
would be very proud to represent Great Britain in the Olympics, as I am sure
the other lads would be as well. It would be a great honour. I have always
been really proud to represent my country (England) before and this would be
another proud moment for me. "At the moment, all we know is that we could be
selected but there is process to go through first so we don't know if we
would be chosen, but to be in the hat is a great thing. "With the Olympics
also being in London, it gives it an extra attraction - as everyone knows,
it is right on our doorstep and I am sure our fans are excited about the
Olympics being here as well, it should be an exciting time for London. Being
a London club, it is right in our community and that can only be a good
thing."
Tomkins has already been selected for two major competitions by Pearce,
having appeared for England at the 2009 and 2011 UEFA European Under-21
hampionship finals. Prior to that, he also represented England at the 2005
UEFA European Under-17 Championship and 2008 UEFA European Under-19
Championship. In the group stage at London 2012, Team GB will take on
Senegal at Old Trafford on 26 July, United Arab Emirates at Wembley on 29
July and Uruguay at the Millennium Stadium on 1 August. Sixteen nations are
taking part in the Olympic tournament, with the final to be played at
Wembley on Saturday 11 August - a week before the start of the 2012/13
Barclays Premier League season. Should he be selected, Tomkins could be one
of two West Ham players taking part at London 2012. Winston Reid could be
included by New Zealand should he recover from the groin injury that has
ruled him out of the OFC Nations Cup tournament currently taking place in
the Solomon Islands.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Barrera enjoys second World Cup win
WHUFC.com
Pablo Barrera's Mexico won 2-1 in El Salvador in their second 2014 FIFA
World Cup qualifier
13.06.2012
Pablo Barrera's Mexico continued their perfect start to their 2014 FIFA
World Cup CONCACAF third round Group B qualifying campaign by winning 2-1 in
El Salvador on Tuesday. The West Ham United winger, who played for 65
minutes as Guyana were beaten 3-1 at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City last
Friday, was a starter again at the Estadio Cuscatlan in San Salvador. The
25-year-old played for 87 minutes as goals from Jesus Eduardo Zavala and
Hector Moreno saw Mexico go two points clear at the top of the Group B
table. Barrera has now earned 49 senior caps for Mexico since making his
debut at the age of 20 in a friendly meeting with Guatemala in October 2007,
scoring six goals. He appeared three times at the 2010 FIFA World Cup finals
in South Africa and was part of the squads which won the 2009 and 2011
CONCACAF Gold Cups. Mexico are seeking to qualify for their 15th FIFA World
Cup finals, having reached the tournament every time it has been held since
1994. Next up, Jose Manuel de la Torre's side travel to Costa Rica on 7
September before welcoming the same opposition on 11 September. The third
round concludes with a trip to Guyana on 12 October and the visit of El
Salvador on 16 October. The CONCACAF region also contains previous FIFA
World Cup finals participants United States, Jamaica and Canada, as well as
2010 FIFA World Cup qualifiers Honduras. The top two nations in each of
three third-round groups will qualify for the fourth round group-stage,
where six teams will battle for three automatic qualifying places and one
intercontinental play-off berth against the first-place Oceania side -
likely to be Winston Reid's New Zealand.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United to sign Jussi Jaaskelainen from Bolton
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United will sign goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen at the end of his
Bolton Wanderers contract on 1 July. The former Finland international, 37,
played 529 games for Wanderers after arriving in 1997. He will link up with
former Bolton boss Sam Allardyce on a one-year deal, with the option for a
further 12 months.
"After spending 15 years in Bolton, it's a great new challenge and I'm
looking forward to it," Jaaskelainen told West Ham's official website.
Jussi Jaaskelainen factfile
Born: Mikkeli, Finland on 19 April 1975
Clubs: 1992-95 Mikkelin Palloilijat, 1996-97 Vassan Palloseura, 1997-2012
Bolton Wanderers
Finland caps: 56
"Everything has happened really quickly. When the opportunity was offered to
come to West Ham, I didn't think twice and I just told my agent to sort it
out as quickly as possible." Jaaskelainen was brought to Bolton by
then-manager Colin Todd from Finnish club Vassan Palloseura for £100,000. He
was a key figure at the Reebok Stadium as Allardyce guided Bolton to the
Premier League via the play-offs in 2001, and was first choice for more than
a decade. However, he lost his place to Adam Bogdan last season as Owen
Coyle's side were relegated to the Championship. Jaaskelainen added: "I
appreciate Bolton giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my
contract was up and for the efforts the chairman made in trying to get me to
stay. "I would like to thank the fans for all their support over the years
and I wish the players and, in particular, Owen Coyle all the best in
gaining promotion at the first attempt."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Demel: my wages were halved
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 13th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham right-back Guy Demel has told a German newspaper that he took a 50
per cent wage cut to move to England. The French-born Ivorian defender, who
celebrates his 31st birthday today revealed that he agreed to take the
massive pay cut in order to move to east London last August having become
frustrated with life at his previous club, Hamburg SV. In response to a
question regarding his move to England and rumours that the deal was
financially motivated, Demel said: "People were saying I had lost interest;
people were saying I was only in it for the money. You know what? I took a
50 per cent paycut when I went to West Ham.
"I still had a contract at Hamburg. If it was all about the money for me I
could have sat it out in Hamburg collecting all that money for doing
nothing. But I gave my all for the shirt, the team and the supporters for
six years."
Looking back on a season that was wrecked by injury, Demel insisted that his
problems were largely due to a lack of fitness that began with him featuring
so infrequently for Hamburg in his final season in Germany. "Since I was no
longer allowed to keep myself fit with the first team, my body could no
longer take the vigours of high level football," he argued. "My stamina was
low so I couldn't play for a whole 90 minutes. So when I started out in
England, I got my comeuppance."
However now he appears to have fully recovered from his injury woes, Demel
insists that he can't wait to get his full full season in English football
under his belt.
""It's fantastic [here]," he added. "I've been very lucky as I had the
chance to play for six years in the most beautiful city in Germany - and I
feel privileged that my job allows me to live in a place like London. "It
was my goal to play in the Premier League again; now I'm finally there, it's
a great feeling. I want to help establish West Ham as a Premier League club
and I want to play in this league for another two or three years. "When you
have played for a good team in the Bundesliga as I did you are capable of
playing in any league in the world. The level of football in England is very
high as it is in Hamburg. But it's true that the style of football is
different, especially here at West Ham where we play a lot of long ball and
high crosses up front."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
In short...
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 13th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
Local filmmaker Mitch Panayis has released a film short commemorating West
Ham's trip to Wembley on 19th May. The 15-minute film - entitled "They Fly
So High - an East End Outing" - concentrates on supporters both before and
during the day itself, which saw United book an instant return to the
Premier League courtesy of a 2-1 win over Blackpool in the Championship
play-off Final. Speaking to KUMB.com, Mitch revealed the motivation behind
his decision to document West Ham's big day out. "I am a local filmmaker
from Forest Gate who has been documenting the impact of the Olympic Games on
East London for the last three years, with a Documentary due to be released
at the end of this year," he said. "This has centered around Queens Market
in Upton Park. "West Ham as a team and a club has been the topic of many
discussions held at the market between myself and the traders, in particular
the recent relegation and the potential move from Upton Park to the Olympic
Stadium. "Greg, a life long friend of mine and West Ham season ticket
holder, also had strong opinions of the move. When the team reached the
play-off Final, it seemed a natural progression for us to record and
document the fans' perspective of the match in the context of moving away
from Upton Park. "After looking at the footage we believed it was strong
enough to stand alone as a short film in itself, for two reasons. Firstly,
it had its own clear narrative and, we felt, captured the true essence of
going to a game, in particular as an East End day out to a stadium of such
history. "And secondly, because films of this nature are surprisingly few
and far between - when in fact there is a huge audience with an interest in
this type of film, both journalistic and entertainment-wise. "Parts of this
film will be included in the final feature length documentary due out later
this year."
http://www.kumb.com/story.php?id=126294
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wanyama open to move
Celtic starlet linked with big money transfer
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated: June
13, 2012 11:08am
SSN
Celtic starlet Victor Wanyama is a target for a host of Premier League clubs
and is hopeful of sealing a move to England this summer, Sky Sports
understands.
Liverpool, Stoke City, Queens Park Rangers, Newcastle and West Ham United
are all interested in landing the Kenyan midfielder. Wanyama joined Celtic
last summer from Belgian side Beerschot AC but his impact has been huge at
Parkhead. Celtic paid less than £1million for the 20-year-old but now a fee
in excess of £6million is being talked about for Wanyama. Clubs in Italy,
Spain and France have all been impressed by Wanyama, but he is understood to
be keen on a move to the Premier League.
Opportunities
Now Wanyama is ready to move from Celtic and his business manager Rob Moore
has explained that he hopes the club would listen to offers if they came.
"That has been a lot of talk which is not necessarily true," Moore explained
to Sky Sports. "But he is like any other young talented footballer in that
he wants to play at the highest level. "He has made the club aware that if
they receive an offer from one of the big leagues he would like them to
consider it. "He is not unhappy at Celtic, far from it - he loves the club
and everything has been great for him since he moved but should something
come in he feels they should listen."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers confirm Jussi
Veteran keeper teams up with old boss Sam Allardyce again
Last Updated: June 13, 2012 3:13pm
SSN
West Ham have confirmed experienced keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen has agreed
personal terms with the club. As revealed by skysports.com earlier on
Wednesday, the 37-year-old has returned to the Premier League after turning
down the chance to remain at Bolton following the Trotters' relegation last
season. He will move to the Hammers when his Bolton deal expires on 30 June
on a one-year contract, with an option for a second year. The experienced
keeper told the club's official website: "I'm delighted to be joining West
Ham United.
New challenge
"After spending 15 years in Bolton it's a great new challenge and I'm really
looking forward to it. " "Everything has happened really quickly. When the
opportunity was offered to come to West Ham I didn't think twice and I just
told my agent to sort it out as quickly as possible. "I appreciate Bolton
giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my contract was up and for
the efforts the chairman made in trying to get me to stay. "I would like to
thank the fans for all their support over the years and I wish the players
and, in particular, Owen Coyle all the best in gaining promotion at the
first attempt."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wolves reject Jarvis bid
West Ham keen to keep England international in Premier League
Last Updated: June 13, 2012 7:10pm
SSN
Sky Sports sources understand Wolves have rejected a bid for winger Matt
Jarvis from West Ham. Wolves were relegated from the Premier League last
season and face a battle to hold onto their best players. Jarvis certainly
falls into that category having become the first Wolves player in over 20
years to play for England when Fabio Capello capped him in March 2011.
Newly-promoted West Ham are understood to have targeted the 26-year-old and
made an offer for the former Gillingham man believed to be in the region of
£4million. But Jarvis is under contract until 2015 and that leaves Wolves in
a strong negotiating position. Chief executive Jez Moxey has already
outlined his intention to fight for the best deal he can get, while
admitting the club is resigned to losing some of their star names. He told
the Express and Star: "We are not naive. We know clubs will want our best
players but we are ready to do battle with anyone. In some ways, there's
nothing I enjoy more."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jussi Signs, Diame in Talks, But Don't Get Your Hopes Up On Demba Ba
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
So, as expected Jussi Jaaskelainen becomes the second goalkeeper signing of
the summer. I think most of us agree that we need a third, which will
hopefully be Paul Robinson or David Stockdale. Diame is the next one the
list, and it appears that discussions are going well. A source inside the
club confirmed to me yesterday that talks were ongoing. The same source
poured scorn on some of the speculation on Twitter about summer signings, so
I think we all need to be very sceptical about some of the players being
touted by one or two members of the Twitterarti. It seems clear that we are
looking abroad for most of our signings because English players are too
expensive both in terms of fees and wages. Take Matt Jarvis. We're looking
to bid £4 million for him, yet Wolves value him at £10 million. I suspect we
may miss out on Jordan Rhodes for similar reasons.
The club also want to sell Piquionne and Freddie Sears, but there is no one
out there who really wants them and prepared to take on their current wages.
Piquionne is on £36-£38k a week. No one in their right mind would take that
on, so it is clear that if West Ham want both players to leave, there will
have to be a financial incentive for them to do so. It's the economics of
the madhouse, but it's all too typical in the current world of football, as
former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan demonstrates in his excellent new
autobiography BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR.
I'm afraid that all those who think there's any chance of Demba Ba returning
can think again. Apparently on top of an £8 million fee, he would want £70k
a week plus a very large fee for his agent. And then there's his knee. Way
too risky. Part of me hopes I have to eat these words, but it just isn't
going to happen.
There's a lot of talk about Krasic from Juventus and Neymar from Santos. I'd
like to believe either might be true, but I really don't know.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jaaskelainen says Juss to Hammers
The Sun
Published: 13th June 2012
JUSSI JAASKELAINEN has joined West Ham after agreeing personal terms with
the club. The veteran keeper will move to the Boleyn Ground on a free
transfer after his contract with Bolton expires on June 30. Jaaskelainen,
37, has signed a one-year contract with an option of a second year. He will
team up with his former boss Sam Allardyce at the Hammers. The former
Finland international said: "I'm delighted to be joining West Ham United.
"After spending 15 years in Bolton it's a great new challenge and I'm really
looking forward to it. "Everything has happened really quickly. When the
opportunity was offered to come to West Ham I didn't think twice and I just
told my agent to sort it out as quickly as possible. "I appreciate Bolton
giving me permission to speak to West Ham before my contract was up and for
the efforts the chairman made in trying to get me to stay. "I would like to
thank the fans for all their support over the years and I wish the players
and, in particular, Owen Coyle all the best in gaining promotion at the
first attempt." West Ham have swooped for Jaaskelainen after current No1
Robert Green expressed his desire to leave the newly-promoted side.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Yak raid
The Sun
By MARTIN BLACKBURN
Published: 13th June 2012
SAM ALLARDYCE is plotting a raid for Blackburn top-scorer Yakubu. The
Nigerian striker, 29, has a clause in his contract which allows him to leave
for just £1million.
West Ham boss Allardyce would relish getting one over on his Ewood Park
successor Steve Kean by nicking his 17-goal hitman on the cheap. Big Sam has
also agreed a deal for Bolton's Finnish goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen, 37,
to join his Premier League new boys on a free.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers want Krasic and Elia
FootballBuster.com
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce met with Juventus directors on Tuesday aiming
to sign Eljero Elia and Milos Krasic. Allardyce met with Juve director Fabio
Paratici and the Hammers have confirmed to ESPN that the manager was there
to discuss the futures of want-away wingers Krasic and Elia. Elia is seeking
to move on after a hugely disappointing debut season at Juve, while Serbia
international Krasic has also found himself down the pecking order. West Ham
had earlier attempted to sign Wolves wingers Matt Jarvis and Michael Kightly
following their relegation, but a Hammers insider told ESPN: "West Ham have
tried but Wolves don't want to sell Jarvis or Kightly." West Ham have also
given up on Yossi Benayoun, who is expected to announce his departure from
Chelsea. Ajax and Maccabi Haifa remain interested in the Israeli.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce plans Yakubu raid as West Ham boss continues to build for Premier
League return
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:40, 13 June 2012 | UPDATED: 22:40, 13 June 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is ready to raid former club Blackburn for
striker Yakubu and will hold talks with Mohamed Diame on Friday. Yakubu has
a £1million buy-out clause in his contract and wants to stay in the Premier
League despite interest from China and the Middle East. Former Wigan
midfielder Diame, 24, is due to fly in for talks on Friday ahead of a
weekend medical but is also expecting to talk to three other Premier League
clubs. Allardyce met Juventus officials in Italy on Tuesday to discuss
potential loans for Milos Krasic and Eljero Elia after being priced out of
moves for Wolves duo Matt Jarvis and Michael Kightly.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM SET TO SIGN WIGAN FREE-AGENT MOHAMED DIAME
Express.co.uk
Wednesday June 13,2012
By Daily Express reporter
WEST HAM are now favourites to sign Wigan midfielder Mohamed Diame after it
was revealed the club were holding a second round of talks. The defensive
midfidler is available on a free transfer after deciding to leave Wigan. It
had been believed that he was set for a move to Livepool but the newly
promoted Hammers beat them to it.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, June 13
Daily WHUFC News - 13th June 2012
Transfer update
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are working hard to bring in new faces for the club's return to the Premier League
12.06.2012
Although the action on the pitch at the Boleyn Ground has taken a break for the summer, the hard work to bring in new faces for the 2012/13 Premier League season is still very much ongoing. Manager Sam Allardyce and Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold are in daily contact as they look identify the right players to help bolster the Hammers side that secured Premier League football with a dramatic late win at Wembley in the npower Championship Play-Off final. West Ham United are hoping to bring in at least five new players this summer, with possible targets identified across the field and a particular focus given to bringing in at least two new attacking players. There are currently bids in for two players and talks are also at an advanced stage to sign two of the best 'Bosman' transfers available in the Premier League. With plenty of rumours flying around about possible transfer targets and approaches for different players, supporters are reminded that that the very first place any official transfer news will be confirmed is either at whufc.com, via the official SMS service or on the club's Facebook or twitter pages. It is hoped news of the Hammers' second summer signing after goalkeeper Stephen Henderson will be announced to supporters in the next seven days so remember to keep checking back to make sure you do not miss out.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam's Italian job
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 12th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are being linked with a move for a mystery Juventus player after Sam Allardyce was apparently spotted meeting staff of the Serie A club. Sky Sports Italia are reported to have caught the United boss speaking with Juventus director Fabio Paratici earlier today, leading to speculation that Big Sam is looking at one of La Vecchia Signora's wantaway wingers. Two names already mooted as potential targets are Dutch international Eljero Elia and the former CSKA Moscow winger Milos Krasic. 25-year-old Elia was recently linked with a move to Liverpool after becoming frustrated at a lack of opportunities with the currnet Serie A champions, who won the Scudetto for the first time in nine years last season. Despite featuring for the Netherlands at the 2010 World Cup Finals in South Africa his lack of playing time at Juve - Elia made just five appearances for the club all season having signed from Hamburg in a €9million switch - led to his exclusion from Bert van Marwijk's Euro 2012 squad.
Meanwhile 27-year-old Krasic, a right-sided winger with an explosive turn of pace fared little better in 2011/12, making only a handful of starts for the Serie A champions in his second season at the club. Having signed from CSKA in August 2010 for a fee circa €15million, the Serb was an almost ever-present in his first season at the Juventus Stadium but fell out of favour and was linked with both Chelsea and Tottenham in January of this year. He opted to remain in Turin but was soon left to rue his decision after he failed to win his place back in Antonio Conte's first team reckoning.
Allardyce, who is also reported to have met with representatives of other clubs whilst in Italy has also been linked with Inter's 19-year-old Dutch striker Luc Castaignos and Juve's 29-year-old forward Fabio Quagliarella.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers 'in talks' with Momo
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 12th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
That's Wigan's highly-rated Momo Diame, according to reports emanating late this afternoon...
Out of contract this summer, the 24-year-old has been interesting Liverpool, Manchester United and Everton amongst others, but according to Sky Sports the Hammers appear to have stolen a march over their rivals in the rase to sign the Senegalese international. According to the 24-hour TV channel, West Ham are close to tieing up a deal to take the French-born defensive midfielder to east London on a free transfer, with talks said to be 'at an advanced stage'. Diame joined Athletic from Spanish club Reyo in August 2009 in a cash-plus-player swap ( €3.8 million plus defender Antonio Amaya). At the time he was said to have been watched by the likes of Real Madrid and Arsenal having ressurrected his career in Spain. Meanwhile West Ham confirmed this afternoon that they are hoping to bring in several players ahead of the beginning of the 2012/13 campaign. "United are hoping to bring in at least five new players this summer, with possible targets identified across the field and a particular focus given to bringing in at least two new attacking players," a statement posted on whufc.com this afternoon read. "There are currently bids in for two players and talks are also at an advanced stage to sign two of the best 'Bosman' transfers available in the Premier League" - one of whom is thought to be Diame.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rangers go for Green
Hughes to offer keeper four-year deal at Loftus Road
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated: June 12, 2012 3:02pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands Queens Park Rangers are closing in on the signing of England goalkeeper Robert Green on a free transfer. Rangers boss Mark Hughes has made a new goalkeeper one of his top priorities and has been linked with a host of stars, including Ben Foster, Shay Given and Green. However, it is understood Hughes has opted to pursue a move for Green who is available on a free transfer after seeing out his contract at West Ham. Green, who is currently away on international duty with England at Euro 2012, is looking for a new club after turning down a new deal at West Ham. West Brom have also been credited with an interest in Green, but it appears QPR are set to win the race for the 32-year-old. Rangers are prepared to offer Green a four-year contract to lure him to Loftus Road and hope to tie up the deal as soon as possible. It is thought they are ready to send out officials to Poland and Ukraine next week to finalise the move as they look to make Green their first signing of the summer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diame in Hammers talks
Top-flight new-boys could win race for midfielder's signature
Last Updated: June 12, 2012 5:14pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands West Ham are holding a second round of talks with former Wigan midfielder Mohamed Diame. The sought-after Senegal midfielder is available on a free transfer after his contract at Wigan expired and has attracted reported interest from several Premier League clubs. Liverpool were thought to be front-runners for his signature, while Aston Villa, QPR and Sunderland have also been linked. But it appears the Hammers could beat them to the punch, with the top-flight new-boys thought to be in a second round of negotiations with the 24-year-old. Diame, who joined the Latics from Rayo Vallecano for €3.8million in 2009, notched up 89 appearances during his stint at the DW Stadium, scoring seven goals.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Prem sides eye Salpingidis
Greek striker's representative in talks with a number of teams
Last Updated: June 12, 2012 12:57pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands Greece star Dimitris Salpingidis is a target for several Premier League clubs. Stoke, Wigan, Norwich and newly-promoted sides West Ham and Reading are all thought to be eyeing the striker. Salpingidis, 30, became a hero for his country after stepping off the bench to bag the equaliser against co-hosts Poland in the opening game of Euro 2012 to salvage a 1-1 draw. Salpingidis, who plies is trade for PAOK, also scored for the Greek outfit in last season's Europa League group stage victory against Tottenham at White Hart Lane. Despite having a year to run on his contract he is thought to be able to leave on a free this summer after a dispute over wages. The player's UK representative, Chris Nathaniel admitted: "We are talking with a number of Premier League teams."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diame and Jarvis Enter the Frame!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
West Ham transfer rumours are flying about left, right and centre at present. Amid all this speculation, the West Ham Utd FC official website has stated that the club are looking to bring in at least 5 new signings this summer, with two forwards targeted. Interestingly, they state that bids have been submitted for two players and negotiations are at advanced stages with two of the best Bosmen signings in the PL.
This evening a report emerged that one of those Bosmans was Wigan's defensive midfielder Mo Diame. And the club have submittted a £4m bid for pacy left winger, Matt Jarvis. I mention these two reports because they are realistic and suitably ambitious, in that both players are the right age and their addition would significantly improve us in two key positions. Wolves will probably hold out for more than £4m, although equally, they might decide it is time to cash in on Jarvis. West Ham could try to sweeten the deal by offering a player exchange deal or a season long loan for one of our younger players like Sam Baldock. That's if he is not loaned as part of the deal to bring Wilfred Zaha from Crystal Palace. What a propsect, having Zaha and Jarvis on the flanks and Diame in the midfield holding role next season. That would be a massive step forward for us.
Another rumour this evening, originating from Italy, is that Sam Allardyce has been seen in discussions with officials of Juventus and there may be a potential deal or two afoot. We will have to wait and see if anything comes of this, but would Allardyce be dealing directly with officials of Juventus? Surely under the current set up at the club it would be David Sullivan doing the negotiations on Allardyce's identified targets? Whether it is true or not, it is good to see West Ham being linked with quality players at one of the best clubs in Europe.
On the issue of Sam Baldock's future, I am personally against his sale. He has lightening pace and good striking ability and is ideally suited to PL football. It could be a serious mistake to dispose of his potential so early, before he has been given a chance to show what he can do. Nicky Maynard is also a young player of significant potential, but it could be Baldock who eventually emerges as the better striker. Certainly both players need to be given a decent chance to show what they can do in the PL.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers offer Jarvis a lifeline
The Sun
Published: 12th June 2012
WEST HAM have tabled a £4million bid for Wolves' England winger Matt Jarvis. The Hammers made an official move last night to offer Jarvis a quick return to the Premier League. Irons boss Sam Allardyce is keen to start building a team fit for the top flight after clinching promotion. Jarvis, 25, earned his first England cap in a friendly against Ghana last year, and scored eight goals for relegated Wolves last season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce makes a £4 million bid for Wolves' and England winger Matt Jarvis.
Sam Allardyce is stepping up his preparations for the Premier League after making a £4 million bid for Wolves' and England winger Matt Jarvis.
Telegraph.co.uk
By John Percy1:28AM BST 13 Jun 2012
Telegraph Sport can reveal that Allardyce, the West Ham manager, tabled an offer for Jarvis on Tuesday afternoon as he attempted to make his first major recruitment since guiding the club back to the top flight. Wolves are expected to reject the offer as they rate Jarvis at around £10 million but West Ham have made the first move for a player that was always likely to be targeted after relegation to the Championship. Steve Morgan, the Wolves chairman, is intent on demanding a significant fee for Jarvis, who only cost an initial £400,000 from Gillingham in 2007. Morgan will point to the fact that the 26 year-old made his debut for England last year, making an appearance as a second-half substitute against Ghana, and has also performed consistently in the Premier League for the past three campaigns.
West Ham are not prepared to meet the strict fee that will be required to prise Jarvis out of Molineux but will make a second, improved offer if their opening gambit is turned down. Allardyce could also face competition from Stoke City, with Tony Pulis a long-term admirer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers bid £4m for Jarvis while Big Sam continues chase for Diame
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:45, 12 June 2012 | UPDATED: 02:18, 13 June 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham have tabled a £4million offer for Wolves' winger Matt Jarvis and have re-opened talks with midfielder Mohamed Diame. Sam Allardyce's bid for Jarvis is likely to be met with resistance as the 26-year-old is one of a cluster of players that Stale Solbakken will be hoping to keep. Free agent Diame, 24, has also attracted interest from Sunderland and Liverpool, but would be interested in a move to London. Allardyce is also keen to sign a striker. He has been rebuffed in bids for Norwich's Grant Holt but is monitoring Evian's Yannick Sagbo again and is interested in Sochaux's Modibo Maiga. The 24-year-old Maiga almost joined Newcastle last year and has emerged as a target for Stoke and Reading this summer. Sochaux value him at £6m.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham lining up sensational double swoop on Italian giants
Footylatest.com
According to reports in Italy, West Ham United are looking to make a serious bid to re-establish themselves in the Premier League by tapping on the door of one of Europe's most illustrious clubs, Juventus. The Hammers are looking to acquire Eljero Elia and Milos Krasic as the two talented midfielders have steadily blown peripheral to the plans of the Old Lady owing to inconsistency on the pitch.
After a stunning first season in Turin, Krasic found it very hard to cement his spot in the first team as coach Antonio Conte rung in the changes and brought his own vision to the club. The Serb has found himself struggling to compete for a spot in the team and Juventus have made it amply clear that they don't mind letting Krasic go despite investing 15 million euros in the winger.
Eljero Elia has had a similar fate with Juve, barely making any first team appearances since his move from Hamburg last summer. The 9 million euro move has proved a sour one for both player and club and a move away for him is expected to materialize this summer.
Sam Allardyce has a very rugged and old fashioned style of football that could be offset by the arrival of these two flair players in midfield. It'll be interesting to see how Allardyce gets the two deals in the favour of the Hammers and convinces these two talented men to serve a newly promoted Premier League club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham wanted Quagliarella
By Football Italia staff
It's reported West Ham's offer for Fabio Quagliarella was rebuffed, but they are in talks for Juventus duo Milos Krasic and Eljero Elia. The rumours began to swirl around when Sky Sport Italia cameras caught Hammers manager Sam Allardyce in a meeting with Juve director Fabio Paratici in Italy this afternoon. According to the latest reports, Allardyce initially went to ask after striker Quagliarella, but was told in no uncertain terms this move would not go through. Instead, Juve are in talks to either loan or sell wingers Krasic and Elia.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Beat Liverpool to the Signing of Free-Agent Mohamed Diame
Sportsvibe.co.uk
West Ham United are now the favourites to sign free-agent Mohamed Diame after it was revealed that the club were holding a second round of discussions with the defensive midfielder. The Senegal international is available on a free transfer after deciding to leave Wigan after his contract ended and it had been believed that he would be moving to Liverpool. Sky Sports has reported that despite Liverpool being the favourites to sign Diame, it is now West Ham that look like securing the signature of Diame. The Hammers gained promotion back to the Premier League after beating Blackpool in the play-off final and manager Sam Allardyce will be looking to strengthen his squad. The 24-year-old is believed to be holding talks with West Ham and it seems they are on the verge of a major coup as they look to beat a number of other Premier League clubs to Diame. Wigan paid €3.8million for the midfielder in 2009 from Rayo Vallecano and he went on to make 89 appearances for the club in his three-year spell with the club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to swoop for £4m Sochaux striker
By talkSPORT | Tuesday, June 12, 2012
West Ham are leading the chase to sign Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga. Maiga, 24, almost made a move to Newcastle back in January, but saw the deal collapse after they had concerns over a knee problem. The Mali forward is confident there will be no problems this time around and is also attracting interest from Stoke. Despite his injury concerns, Maiga has a formidable goalscoring record for Sochaux and is ready to show he can compete at the highest level. Reports in French newspaper L'Equipe claim West Ham are in pole position to land his signature and are set to make a £4m bid. Sam Allardyce is looking to bolster his forward line following the club's promotion into the Premier League and would like to bring in his new signings before pre-season gets underway at the start of July.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers move for Souprayen and Solly as Big Sam looks to strengthen defence
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 10:16, 12 June 2012 | UPDATED: 10:16, 12 June 2012
Daily Mail
Premier League new boys West Ham have made a £1.2million bid for Dijon left-back Samuel Souprayen, and are preparing an offer for Charlton right-back Chris Solly. Hammers boss Sam Allardce is keen to strengthen his defence having overseen a clear-out following the club's Championship play-off final win over Blackpool last month. Souprayen, 23, was a rare shining light for Dijon last season as they were relegated from the French top flight. The former France Under-21 international can also play at centre-back. Solly, 21, was voted Charlton's player of the season as they won the League One title and the Addicks are likely to demand a seven-figure sum for the player. Defenders Julien Faubert and Abdoulaye Faye were both been released by Allardyce at the end of the season, while left-back George McCartney has returned to Sunderland following the end of his season-long loan. Although Allardyce hopes to bring McCartney back to the club, he currently only has four senior defenders on his playing staff - James Tomkins, Winston Reid, Guy Demel and Joey O'Brien.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are working hard to bring in new faces for the club's return to the Premier League
12.06.2012
Although the action on the pitch at the Boleyn Ground has taken a break for the summer, the hard work to bring in new faces for the 2012/13 Premier League season is still very much ongoing. Manager Sam Allardyce and Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold are in daily contact as they look identify the right players to help bolster the Hammers side that secured Premier League football with a dramatic late win at Wembley in the npower Championship Play-Off final. West Ham United are hoping to bring in at least five new players this summer, with possible targets identified across the field and a particular focus given to bringing in at least two new attacking players. There are currently bids in for two players and talks are also at an advanced stage to sign two of the best 'Bosman' transfers available in the Premier League. With plenty of rumours flying around about possible transfer targets and approaches for different players, supporters are reminded that that the very first place any official transfer news will be confirmed is either at whufc.com, via the official SMS service or on the club's Facebook or twitter pages. It is hoped news of the Hammers' second summer signing after goalkeeper Stephen Henderson will be announced to supporters in the next seven days so remember to keep checking back to make sure you do not miss out.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam's Italian job
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 12th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are being linked with a move for a mystery Juventus player after Sam Allardyce was apparently spotted meeting staff of the Serie A club. Sky Sports Italia are reported to have caught the United boss speaking with Juventus director Fabio Paratici earlier today, leading to speculation that Big Sam is looking at one of La Vecchia Signora's wantaway wingers. Two names already mooted as potential targets are Dutch international Eljero Elia and the former CSKA Moscow winger Milos Krasic. 25-year-old Elia was recently linked with a move to Liverpool after becoming frustrated at a lack of opportunities with the currnet Serie A champions, who won the Scudetto for the first time in nine years last season. Despite featuring for the Netherlands at the 2010 World Cup Finals in South Africa his lack of playing time at Juve - Elia made just five appearances for the club all season having signed from Hamburg in a €9million switch - led to his exclusion from Bert van Marwijk's Euro 2012 squad.
Meanwhile 27-year-old Krasic, a right-sided winger with an explosive turn of pace fared little better in 2011/12, making only a handful of starts for the Serie A champions in his second season at the club. Having signed from CSKA in August 2010 for a fee circa €15million, the Serb was an almost ever-present in his first season at the Juventus Stadium but fell out of favour and was linked with both Chelsea and Tottenham in January of this year. He opted to remain in Turin but was soon left to rue his decision after he failed to win his place back in Antonio Conte's first team reckoning.
Allardyce, who is also reported to have met with representatives of other clubs whilst in Italy has also been linked with Inter's 19-year-old Dutch striker Luc Castaignos and Juve's 29-year-old forward Fabio Quagliarella.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers 'in talks' with Momo
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 12th June 2012
By: Staff Writer
That's Wigan's highly-rated Momo Diame, according to reports emanating late this afternoon...
Out of contract this summer, the 24-year-old has been interesting Liverpool, Manchester United and Everton amongst others, but according to Sky Sports the Hammers appear to have stolen a march over their rivals in the rase to sign the Senegalese international. According to the 24-hour TV channel, West Ham are close to tieing up a deal to take the French-born defensive midfielder to east London on a free transfer, with talks said to be 'at an advanced stage'. Diame joined Athletic from Spanish club Reyo in August 2009 in a cash-plus-player swap ( €3.8 million plus defender Antonio Amaya). At the time he was said to have been watched by the likes of Real Madrid and Arsenal having ressurrected his career in Spain. Meanwhile West Ham confirmed this afternoon that they are hoping to bring in several players ahead of the beginning of the 2012/13 campaign. "United are hoping to bring in at least five new players this summer, with possible targets identified across the field and a particular focus given to bringing in at least two new attacking players," a statement posted on whufc.com this afternoon read. "There are currently bids in for two players and talks are also at an advanced stage to sign two of the best 'Bosman' transfers available in the Premier League" - one of whom is thought to be Diame.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rangers go for Green
Hughes to offer keeper four-year deal at Loftus Road
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated: June 12, 2012 3:02pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands Queens Park Rangers are closing in on the signing of England goalkeeper Robert Green on a free transfer. Rangers boss Mark Hughes has made a new goalkeeper one of his top priorities and has been linked with a host of stars, including Ben Foster, Shay Given and Green. However, it is understood Hughes has opted to pursue a move for Green who is available on a free transfer after seeing out his contract at West Ham. Green, who is currently away on international duty with England at Euro 2012, is looking for a new club after turning down a new deal at West Ham. West Brom have also been credited with an interest in Green, but it appears QPR are set to win the race for the 32-year-old. Rangers are prepared to offer Green a four-year contract to lure him to Loftus Road and hope to tie up the deal as soon as possible. It is thought they are ready to send out officials to Poland and Ukraine next week to finalise the move as they look to make Green their first signing of the summer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diame in Hammers talks
Top-flight new-boys could win race for midfielder's signature
Last Updated: June 12, 2012 5:14pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands West Ham are holding a second round of talks with former Wigan midfielder Mohamed Diame. The sought-after Senegal midfielder is available on a free transfer after his contract at Wigan expired and has attracted reported interest from several Premier League clubs. Liverpool were thought to be front-runners for his signature, while Aston Villa, QPR and Sunderland have also been linked. But it appears the Hammers could beat them to the punch, with the top-flight new-boys thought to be in a second round of negotiations with the 24-year-old. Diame, who joined the Latics from Rayo Vallecano for €3.8million in 2009, notched up 89 appearances during his stint at the DW Stadium, scoring seven goals.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Prem sides eye Salpingidis
Greek striker's representative in talks with a number of teams
Last Updated: June 12, 2012 12:57pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands Greece star Dimitris Salpingidis is a target for several Premier League clubs. Stoke, Wigan, Norwich and newly-promoted sides West Ham and Reading are all thought to be eyeing the striker. Salpingidis, 30, became a hero for his country after stepping off the bench to bag the equaliser against co-hosts Poland in the opening game of Euro 2012 to salvage a 1-1 draw. Salpingidis, who plies is trade for PAOK, also scored for the Greek outfit in last season's Europa League group stage victory against Tottenham at White Hart Lane. Despite having a year to run on his contract he is thought to be able to leave on a free this summer after a dispute over wages. The player's UK representative, Chris Nathaniel admitted: "We are talking with a number of Premier League teams."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diame and Jarvis Enter the Frame!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
West Ham transfer rumours are flying about left, right and centre at present. Amid all this speculation, the West Ham Utd FC official website has stated that the club are looking to bring in at least 5 new signings this summer, with two forwards targeted. Interestingly, they state that bids have been submitted for two players and negotiations are at advanced stages with two of the best Bosmen signings in the PL.
This evening a report emerged that one of those Bosmans was Wigan's defensive midfielder Mo Diame. And the club have submittted a £4m bid for pacy left winger, Matt Jarvis. I mention these two reports because they are realistic and suitably ambitious, in that both players are the right age and their addition would significantly improve us in two key positions. Wolves will probably hold out for more than £4m, although equally, they might decide it is time to cash in on Jarvis. West Ham could try to sweeten the deal by offering a player exchange deal or a season long loan for one of our younger players like Sam Baldock. That's if he is not loaned as part of the deal to bring Wilfred Zaha from Crystal Palace. What a propsect, having Zaha and Jarvis on the flanks and Diame in the midfield holding role next season. That would be a massive step forward for us.
Another rumour this evening, originating from Italy, is that Sam Allardyce has been seen in discussions with officials of Juventus and there may be a potential deal or two afoot. We will have to wait and see if anything comes of this, but would Allardyce be dealing directly with officials of Juventus? Surely under the current set up at the club it would be David Sullivan doing the negotiations on Allardyce's identified targets? Whether it is true or not, it is good to see West Ham being linked with quality players at one of the best clubs in Europe.
On the issue of Sam Baldock's future, I am personally against his sale. He has lightening pace and good striking ability and is ideally suited to PL football. It could be a serious mistake to dispose of his potential so early, before he has been given a chance to show what he can do. Nicky Maynard is also a young player of significant potential, but it could be Baldock who eventually emerges as the better striker. Certainly both players need to be given a decent chance to show what they can do in the PL.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers offer Jarvis a lifeline
The Sun
Published: 12th June 2012
WEST HAM have tabled a £4million bid for Wolves' England winger Matt Jarvis. The Hammers made an official move last night to offer Jarvis a quick return to the Premier League. Irons boss Sam Allardyce is keen to start building a team fit for the top flight after clinching promotion. Jarvis, 25, earned his first England cap in a friendly against Ghana last year, and scored eight goals for relegated Wolves last season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce makes a £4 million bid for Wolves' and England winger Matt Jarvis.
Sam Allardyce is stepping up his preparations for the Premier League after making a £4 million bid for Wolves' and England winger Matt Jarvis.
Telegraph.co.uk
By John Percy1:28AM BST 13 Jun 2012
Telegraph Sport can reveal that Allardyce, the West Ham manager, tabled an offer for Jarvis on Tuesday afternoon as he attempted to make his first major recruitment since guiding the club back to the top flight. Wolves are expected to reject the offer as they rate Jarvis at around £10 million but West Ham have made the first move for a player that was always likely to be targeted after relegation to the Championship. Steve Morgan, the Wolves chairman, is intent on demanding a significant fee for Jarvis, who only cost an initial £400,000 from Gillingham in 2007. Morgan will point to the fact that the 26 year-old made his debut for England last year, making an appearance as a second-half substitute against Ghana, and has also performed consistently in the Premier League for the past three campaigns.
West Ham are not prepared to meet the strict fee that will be required to prise Jarvis out of Molineux but will make a second, improved offer if their opening gambit is turned down. Allardyce could also face competition from Stoke City, with Tony Pulis a long-term admirer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers bid £4m for Jarvis while Big Sam continues chase for Diame
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:45, 12 June 2012 | UPDATED: 02:18, 13 June 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham have tabled a £4million offer for Wolves' winger Matt Jarvis and have re-opened talks with midfielder Mohamed Diame. Sam Allardyce's bid for Jarvis is likely to be met with resistance as the 26-year-old is one of a cluster of players that Stale Solbakken will be hoping to keep. Free agent Diame, 24, has also attracted interest from Sunderland and Liverpool, but would be interested in a move to London. Allardyce is also keen to sign a striker. He has been rebuffed in bids for Norwich's Grant Holt but is monitoring Evian's Yannick Sagbo again and is interested in Sochaux's Modibo Maiga. The 24-year-old Maiga almost joined Newcastle last year and has emerged as a target for Stoke and Reading this summer. Sochaux value him at £6m.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham lining up sensational double swoop on Italian giants
Footylatest.com
According to reports in Italy, West Ham United are looking to make a serious bid to re-establish themselves in the Premier League by tapping on the door of one of Europe's most illustrious clubs, Juventus. The Hammers are looking to acquire Eljero Elia and Milos Krasic as the two talented midfielders have steadily blown peripheral to the plans of the Old Lady owing to inconsistency on the pitch.
After a stunning first season in Turin, Krasic found it very hard to cement his spot in the first team as coach Antonio Conte rung in the changes and brought his own vision to the club. The Serb has found himself struggling to compete for a spot in the team and Juventus have made it amply clear that they don't mind letting Krasic go despite investing 15 million euros in the winger.
Eljero Elia has had a similar fate with Juve, barely making any first team appearances since his move from Hamburg last summer. The 9 million euro move has proved a sour one for both player and club and a move away for him is expected to materialize this summer.
Sam Allardyce has a very rugged and old fashioned style of football that could be offset by the arrival of these two flair players in midfield. It'll be interesting to see how Allardyce gets the two deals in the favour of the Hammers and convinces these two talented men to serve a newly promoted Premier League club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham wanted Quagliarella
By Football Italia staff
It's reported West Ham's offer for Fabio Quagliarella was rebuffed, but they are in talks for Juventus duo Milos Krasic and Eljero Elia. The rumours began to swirl around when Sky Sport Italia cameras caught Hammers manager Sam Allardyce in a meeting with Juve director Fabio Paratici in Italy this afternoon. According to the latest reports, Allardyce initially went to ask after striker Quagliarella, but was told in no uncertain terms this move would not go through. Instead, Juve are in talks to either loan or sell wingers Krasic and Elia.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Beat Liverpool to the Signing of Free-Agent Mohamed Diame
Sportsvibe.co.uk
West Ham United are now the favourites to sign free-agent Mohamed Diame after it was revealed that the club were holding a second round of discussions with the defensive midfielder. The Senegal international is available on a free transfer after deciding to leave Wigan after his contract ended and it had been believed that he would be moving to Liverpool. Sky Sports has reported that despite Liverpool being the favourites to sign Diame, it is now West Ham that look like securing the signature of Diame. The Hammers gained promotion back to the Premier League after beating Blackpool in the play-off final and manager Sam Allardyce will be looking to strengthen his squad. The 24-year-old is believed to be holding talks with West Ham and it seems they are on the verge of a major coup as they look to beat a number of other Premier League clubs to Diame. Wigan paid €3.8million for the midfielder in 2009 from Rayo Vallecano and he went on to make 89 appearances for the club in his three-year spell with the club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to swoop for £4m Sochaux striker
By talkSPORT | Tuesday, June 12, 2012
West Ham are leading the chase to sign Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga. Maiga, 24, almost made a move to Newcastle back in January, but saw the deal collapse after they had concerns over a knee problem. The Mali forward is confident there will be no problems this time around and is also attracting interest from Stoke. Despite his injury concerns, Maiga has a formidable goalscoring record for Sochaux and is ready to show he can compete at the highest level. Reports in French newspaper L'Equipe claim West Ham are in pole position to land his signature and are set to make a £4m bid. Sam Allardyce is looking to bolster his forward line following the club's promotion into the Premier League and would like to bring in his new signings before pre-season gets underway at the start of July.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers move for Souprayen and Solly as Big Sam looks to strengthen defence
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 10:16, 12 June 2012 | UPDATED: 10:16, 12 June 2012
Daily Mail
Premier League new boys West Ham have made a £1.2million bid for Dijon left-back Samuel Souprayen, and are preparing an offer for Charlton right-back Chris Solly. Hammers boss Sam Allardce is keen to strengthen his defence having overseen a clear-out following the club's Championship play-off final win over Blackpool last month. Souprayen, 23, was a rare shining light for Dijon last season as they were relegated from the French top flight. The former France Under-21 international can also play at centre-back. Solly, 21, was voted Charlton's player of the season as they won the League One title and the Addicks are likely to demand a seven-figure sum for the player. Defenders Julien Faubert and Abdoulaye Faye were both been released by Allardyce at the end of the season, while left-back George McCartney has returned to Sunderland following the end of his season-long loan. Although Allardyce hopes to bring McCartney back to the club, he currently only has four senior defenders on his playing staff - James Tomkins, Winston Reid, Guy Demel and Joey O'Brien.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
