Turgott aims for consistency
WHUFC.com
Blair Turgott is hoping to continue his fine form when the Development Squad
face Northampton Town
06.08.2012
Blair Turgott will be aiming to impress when the Development Squad travel to
Northampton Town on Tuesday night. The 18-year-old was part of Sam
Allardyce's squad for the pre-season tour of Germany, where he caught the
eye alongside fellow youngsters Rob Hall and George Moncur. Turgott has
continued his good form on his return to England, scoring the final goal in
Saturday's 4-2 win over AFC Wimbledon and now, speaking ahead of the game at
Sixfields Stadium, Turgott admitted being around the first team has given
him a taste for more. "It was a good experience and it definitely helps my
development being around top professionals and the environment that comes
with it. "Being part of the manager's pre-season plans also allowed me to
see what he likes and what he is hoping for in the upcoming season which is
only going to be good for me."
Cutting an extremely grounded figure, Turgott has modest aims for a player
who has recently been in the first team, admitting his current priority lies
with the Development Squad. "First and foremost I want to continue putting
in good performances for the Development Squad, catch a few eyes then
hopefully break into the first team. "If that doesn't happen this season,
then it doesn't mean it won't, I will continue to work hard and I'm sure I
will get my chance. "Sometimes it's good to go out on loan and get some
experience, but West Ham United is where I want to be. I need to keep
playing well and working hard, if I do both those things then hopefully I
will get an opportunity."
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Morrison joins Blues on loan
WHUFC.com
Ravel Morrison has joined npower Championship side Birmingham City on a
season-long loan
06.08.2012
Ravel Morrison has joined npower Championship side Birmingham City on a
season-long loan. The West Ham United midfielder will link up with the Blues
after being allowed to join Lee Clark's side for the 2012/13 campaign.
Morrison could make his Birmingham debut in a pre-season match against Royal
Antwerp on Saturday.
The 19-year-old joined the Hammers from Manchester United in January and
made his first-team debut at Leeds United on 18 March - his sole senior
appearance for the club so far. Morrison will hope to gain valuable
first-team experience as Birmingham start their challenge to make a return
to the Barclays Premier League after being eliminated in the npower
Championship Play-Off semi-finals by Blackpool last term. Clark's side host
Barnet in the Capital One Cup first round on Tuesday 14 August before
starting their league campaign against Charlton Athletic at St Andrew's on
Saturday 18 August.
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Joey's Ireland joy
WHUFC.com
Joey O'Brien was delighted to receive his first international call-up in
four years
06.08.2012
Joey O'Brien has expressed his delight after receiving his first Republic of
Ireland call-up in four years. The versatile West Ham United defender or
midfielder has battled back from a series of serious knee injuries to earn
his place in Giovanni Trapattoni's squad for a friendly international with
Serbia in Belgrade on 15 August.
For O'Brien, who made his Ireland debut against Sweden in March 2006, earned
the last of his three senior caps in a UEFA European Championship qualifier
against Cyprus in October 2007. Unfortunately, a combination of injuries and
frustration at a lack of playing time then saw O'Brien's opportunities
limited, but he is now back in favour and hoping to start against Serbia and
in next month's UEFA European Championship qualifier in Kazakhstan. After
such a long period in the international wilderness, the 26-year-old was
naturally chuffed to bits with the news that he will be joining up with the
Boys in Green again. "It's been a long time and I've had a few sleepless
nights. Comments I made in the past were taken out of context and weren't
what I wanted to say because I love playing for my country. Hopefully I'll
get the chance to do it."
O'Brien burst into the Bolton Wanderers first team as a teenager, earning
six Republic of Ireland Under-21 caps before making his senior debut in
Steve Staunton's first game in charge - a 3-0 win over Sweden. The following
year, 2007, the Dublin-born player helped Ireland hold Germany to a goalless
draw in a UEFA European Championship qualifier in his home city. Now he has
secured his international return, O'Brien is also targeting a return to
Premier League action. His most-recent top-flight appearance came in a
goalless home draw for Bolton against Blackburn Rovers on 18 October 2008.
"Personally, when I got released by Bolton I was released by a Premier
League club, then I got the chance to go to massive club like West Ham. The
dream then was to get back to playing Premier League football. "Through all
my injury worries, it was all about getting back to playing in the Premier
League so hopefully I'll get that chance."
O'Brien's versatility - he played at centre-back during the recent tour to
Germany and left-back in Saturday's fixture at Ipswich Town - could be key
to him gaining opportunities to play regularly this term. "Obviously it
gives me a chance to get minutes on the pitch. I can play in midfield or at
centre-half too, so that could give me opportunities. Players are going to
pick up injuries and whatever, so as long as the manager gives me the call,
hopefully I'll be able to do the job."
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Andy Carroll: West Ham concede defeat in chase for Liverpool striker
By Ben Smith
BBC Sport
West Ham have conceded defeat in their bid to sign Liverpool's Andy Carroll.
Despite the clubs agreeing terms over a proposed £2m loan deal, the
23-year-old striker has told the newly promoted Premier League club that he
has no intention of joining them. Newcastle retain an active interest in
Carroll but will not pay over the odds for the man they sold for £35m in
2011. With the start of the new season less than a fortnight away, Carroll's
future looks increasingly unclear. The England international continues to
train with the Liverpool squad as he seeks to overcome a minor groin injury.
It remains to be seen whether he plays any part in Thursday's Europa League
qualifier against FC Gomel at Anfield with Liverpool going into the match
with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg. Uefa rules allow a player to
represent one club in the Europa League qualifying round and another in the
group stages. That means Carroll could play for Liverpool during qualifying
and still potentially play for Newcastle, who have secured a place in the
play-offs. Newcastle remain confident that if Carroll leaves Anfield he is
interested only in returning to Tyneside. Liverpool, who signed Carroll for
a club record £35m in January 2011, have already turned down one Newcastle
bid to re-sign the player.
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Ravel Morrison joins Birmingham City from West Ham on loan
BBC.co.uk
Birmingham City have signed teenage West Ham United midfielder Ravel
Morrison on a season-long loan. The 19-year-old joined the Hammers from
Manchester United on 31 January on transfer deadline day for £650,000.
Morrison has so far made just one appearance for the Hammers - as a late
substitute at Leeds in March. But West Ham manager Sam Allardyce was keen
for Morrison, who made just three Carling Cup appearances for Man Utd, to
get some match practice. Manchester-born Morrison has made headlines off the
field, having been fined £600 by a court in May 2011 for throwing his
girlfriend's mobile phone through a window during an argument when a Red
Devils youth-team player. He was then fined £7,000 and warned as to his
future conduct by the Football Association following comments made on
Twitter, after he admitted a charge of using abusive and/or insulting words,
including a reference to a person's sexual orientation.
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Blues move for Morrison
Hammers winger in St Andrews medical
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated:
August 6, 2012 10:03am
SSN
Sky Sports understands West Ham youngster Ravel Morrison is poised to join
Birmingham on loan. West Ham signed the 19-year-old from Manchester United
in January after he turned down a new deal at Old Trafford. Morrison was
regarded as one of the best young players to come through the ranks at
United, but he decided to leave the club in search of regular first-team
football. The talented attacker made only one appearance for West Ham last
season as a late substitute against Leeds. Morrison is set to find himself
down the pecking order at Upton Park this season as the Hammers prepare for
life back in the Premier League and boss Sam Allardyce believes he would be
better served going out on loan. A number of Championship clubs are believed
to have expressed an interest in signing the England youth international,
but Birmingham hope to win the race for his signature. Blues boss Lee Clark
is keen to bolster his squad at St Andrew's and landing Morrison would be
something of a coup for the Birmingham chief.
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Ravel Unravels And Is Off to Birmingham
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
So, Ravel Morrison is joining Birmingham City on a season long loan. It's
rumoured he had a training ground bust up with Neil McDonald, Sam
Allardyce's Number 2. If true, this young man needs to sort himself out
pretty quickly. Last season he incurred the wrath of other players by
injuring Abdoulaye Faye in a dangerous tackle. I was always in favour of him
being signed, although you do have to wonder about his temper. If Sir Alex
Ferguson couldn't sort him out, it makes you wonder if anyone can.
But let's hope he impresses for Birmingham so much that we call him back
early!
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Nicky is Leeds' Mayn target
Published: Today at 00:27
The Sun
WEST HAM ace Nicky Maynard has leapfrogged Craig Mackail-Smith on Leeds'
wish-list. Brighton had hoped to swap striker Mackail-Smith with Ross
McCormack but the latter wants to stay at Elland Road.
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Ravel's Brum deal
Published: 06th August 2012
The Sun
WEST HAM midfielder Ravel Morrison has joined Birmingham on a season-long
loan. The former Manchester United starlet, 19, struggled to make an impact
after signing for the Hammers in January. With Sam Allardyce's men promoted
to the Premier League, Morrison's chances of first team football seemed
limited. And Big Sam has decided to allow him to spend the new campaign with
Lee Clark's Birmingham side in the Championship.
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Carroll update: Son of West Ham owner tweets that the deal's dead and buried
The Mirror
Laurence Griffiths
The Andy Carroll transfer saga is over – as far as West Ham are concerned.
Jack Sullivan – son of West Ham chief David - has long been a source of
interesting nuggets about the life and times of the Irons, and he likes to
share the word with the world via Twitter. It was Jack who tweet-leaked the
news that West Ham were preparing a record £18million move for Carroll . Now
he's closed the door on this fun but futile chapter of the Hammers story, by
tweeting the following: "Sadly the main player we wanted has stayed with the
club he's at, "Continued: despite trying very hard and agreeing terms with
the club, we now move on with other targets.
"Anyway we only want player that want to play for WHU" So that's that then.
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Joey O'Brien thrilled to get the call
Tuesday, 07 August 2012 00:57
www.fai.ie
It's almost four years since Joey O'Brien won the last of his three senior
Republic of Ireland caps, so the West Ham United defender is understandably
delighted to be called up for next week's friendly away to Serbia on August
15. Due to Sean St Ledger's withdrawal after sustaining a knee injury during
Leicester's pre-season fixture at Burton Albion, O'Brien was a late
replacement. He will link up with the squad this Sunday. The 26-year-old
told the club's official website how excited he is about being part of
Giovanni Trapattoni's squad. "It's been a long time and I've had a few
sleepless nights," he said. "Comments that I made in the past were taken out
of context and weren't what I wanted to say because I love playing for my
country. Hopefully, I'll get the chance to do that. O'Brien's first campaign
with the Hammers saw him help achieve promotion for the club back to the
Premier League. That's the stage O'Brien played most of football with Bolton
Wanderers until serious injuries restricted his progress.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, August 7
Monday, August 6
Daily WHUFC News - 6th August 2012
'We'll be ready for Aston Villa'
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald is looking for a response from the squad after Saturday's
pre-season defeat at Ipswich Town
05.08.2012
Neil McDonald insisted West Ham United will be ready for the start of the
Barclays Premier League season, despite seeing the Hammers fall to a
disappointing 3-1 pre-season defeat at Ipswich Town on Saturday. The
assistant manager conceded that West Ham had not been at their best at
Portman Road, pointing to an experimental formation, a slow start and
individual errors as the major factors in causing the loss - factors that
the team will have to avoid repeating when they travel to Portuguese UEFA
Champions League qualifiers SC Braga on Friday evening. Talking to West Ham
TV, McDonald said pre-season was the time to make mistakes and take risks,
but confirmed that the Hammers will be prepared come the big kick-off at
home to Aston Villa on Saturday 18 August.
What was your assessment of the Ipswich Town game, Macca?
NM - "The performance wasn't very good. Our performances over pre-season
have been decent and we look for a bit of progression and in the first half
we didn't really get it, so we're disappointed with that. We played a
different system than we normally play and I think we got over-run and
outpassed in the first half. A few home truths were told at half-time and I
think we ame out and played a lot better in the second half. We created a
few chances and scored a goal ourselves and then conceded again at the end.
The performance has to be better and we've got another two weeks to make
sure they are better. We'll train and we also have the Braga game and we'll
be ready for Aston Villa."
We were 2-0 down within 20 minutes after conceding a penalty and free-kick
just outside our penalty area, while the third goal was also avoidable.
Saying that, we did improve in the second half. What were the reasons?
NM - "We don't like individual mistakes. We conceded a penalty and then a
wide free-kick and everyone has the responsibility to defend a wide
free-kick better. The third goal we had to defend better and not give the
ball away. Those are the things we'll be working very, very hard on over the
next two weeks and hopefully we'll see an improvement against Braga on
Friday. I think we played better in the second half because we told them a
few home truths about each individual performance and the unit performance
[at half-time]. If you get both of them right you play better and I think we
played better in the second half. The aim is to produce a better performance
on Friday. The aim has always been to be ready for the start of the season
and Aston Villa. We've got to be ready for Aston Villa and if our
performance is good against Braga, then we'll be happy with that."
With two weeks to go until the start of the Barclays Premier League season,
presumably yourself, Big Sam and the Board will be eager to strengthen the
squad before 18 August?
NM - "I think we've got a thinnish squad. We've obviously got two away at
the Olympics and a few injuries and we had a couple of the young lads on the
bench on Saturday. When they came on they did all right and it was a good
experience for them. Behind the scenes, if we can bring in two or three
players to stiffen the squad up and add more competition for places that
would be brilliant. It'll keep everybody on their toes as well if we can
bring new faces in."
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Haycock hails U18s
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's youth team will play for fifth place at a prestigious
pre-season tournament in Belgium
05.08.2012
West Ham United Under-18s coach Nick Haycock hailed his Hammers youngsters
after they just missed out on a place in the semi-finals at a prestigious
pre-season tournament in Belgium. The Hammers finished third in their group
at the Yale Eurofoot Tournoi in Oostduinkerke after recording two wins and
one defeat on Saturday. Indeed, West Ham were only denied a place in the
semi-finals on goal difference. After beating Cercle Brugge and losing to
Nordsjaelland on Friday, the Hammers beat Gent and Hajduk Split either side
of losing to Anderlecht on Saturday to finish just outside the top two.
Haycock, who has taken a relatively inexperienced squad to what is an
Under-19 competition, was pleased with his players' performances and
application. "We just missed out on reaching the semi-finals on goal
difference so we'll play against the Dutch team Utrecht for fifth-place on
Sunday," he confirmed. "We started Saturday against Gent from Belgium and we
beat them 2-1. It could have been five or six because we played really well.
"Kieran Bywater put us in front from a Nathan Mavila cross. They then
equalised before Elliot Lee (pictured) scored the winner from the penalty
spot. "We played a younger side against Anderlecht and lost 2-0. Again we
worked hard but we just didn't quite reach the same levels. "Our final game
was against Hajduk Split from Croatia and we needed to win by six goals to
get through to the semi-finals on goal difference. The team was outstanding
and Elliot scored two goals to put us on course. Unfortunately, we conceded
just after half-time and then Elliot missed a penalty and had a shot cleared
off the line, so we missed out on goal difference. "While we would have
loved to have won the tournament, we've been delighted with the way our
preparations have gone in pre-season. We have worked on team shape, pressing
and creating chances in the final third. It's been a terrific tournament for
us. "We have played very, very well with a young side."
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Ravel on his way
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 5th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Reports tonight suggest that Ravel Morrison is set to join Birmingham City
on loan. The former Manchester United youngster joined West Ham in January
having been let go by the Premier League runners-up after Red Devils boss
Alex Ferguson finally lost his patience with the player. But according to
reports tonight, the 19-year-old - who has made just one appearance for West
Ham's first team - is set to join Championship side City on loan for an as
yet undetermined period. Despite having joined West Ham on their recent tour
of Germany, Morrison flew back to England after just two days at the team's
base citing illness. However reports emanating from the club a few days
later claimed that Morrison was instead suffering from toothache. The waters
were muddied further last week when the precocious midfielder was said to be
in Disneyland, having sent a series of Tweets from the theme park.
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Nolan: I'm in the mood for Andy
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 5th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
It seems that nobody at West Ham is refusing to rule out yet another move
for Liverpool striker Andy Carroll - with captain Kevin Nolan the latest to
speak about the possibility of signing his former team mate. Nolan and
Carroll became best friends whilst working together at Newcastle United and
it that link which West Ham are once again looking to exploit as they
continue to hunt the England international. Despite having been told that
the 23-year-old Gateshead-born forward would (naturally) prefer a return to
his home club, West Ham are refusing to give up the chase hoping that as the
transfer window deadline approaches, Carroll may have a change of heart.
With that in mind, the England international's former landlord has once
again appeared in this morning's media in order to express his approval at
the club's continued attempts to sign him. "I would be delighted if Andy
would come and join us here," Nolan is quoted as saying in a national
tabloid this morning. "I am not too sure whether Brendan Rodgers will let
him leave but there is lots of speculation – there always is surrounding
Andy. If there is a chance, we would be in the reckoning for him because he
is such a quality player."
Meanwhile manager Sam Allardyce has backed Nolan's stance by telling a
different tabloid: "I would have probably stuck my neck out and said we
would almost certainly stay up with him on board. "We wouldn't have thought
we would have had any chance of signing a player of Andy Carroll's
capabilities but it became clear a couple of weeks ago there was a
possibility of a loan. Unfortunately, at this moment, it's not the case."
West Ham have previously offered £2million to take Carroll on loan for the
duration of the 2012/13 season with a further fee of around £17million to
follow in the event that the deal be made permanent. Liverpool - who are
understandably reticent to sell the player back to his former club for less
than half the £35million figure they paid for him just 18 months ago - are
understood to have accepted West Ham's terms.
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Big Sam - Carroll keeps us up
Nolan still hoping former team-mate makes Upton Park move
Last Updated: August 5, 2012 7:22pm
SSN
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce believes the signing of Andy Carroll would have
guaranteed Premier League survival for the Hammers. The newly-promoted side
have failed to persuade the 23-year-old target-man to join them from
Liverpool in a £2million season-long loan deal. Carroll does not appear to
be central to Brendan Rodgers' plans at Anfield and that had opened up the
possibility of a switch but the player himself is thought to be unwilling to
make the move. Allardyce is disappointed with that decision - as he believes
the arrival of the England international could have ensured a successful
season. "I would have probably stuck my neck out and said we would almost
certainly stay up with him on board," Allardyce told The People. "We
wouldn't have thought we would have had any chance of signing a player of
Andy Carroll's capabilities but it became clear a couple of weeks ago there
was a possibility of a loan. "Unfortunately, at this moment, it's not the
case."
Delighted
Hammers skipper Kevin Nolan is hoping that situation changes as he would
welcome the opportunity to link up with his former Newcastle team-mate once
again.
"I would be delighted if Andy would come and join us here," Nolan told the
Daily Star. "I am not too sure whether Brendan Rodgers will let him leave
but there is lots of speculation - there always is surrounding Andy. "If
there is a chance, we would be in the reckoning for him because he is such a
quality player."
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Allardyce not sorry for Rovers
Bolton is a different story, admits Hammers boss
Last Updated: August 5, 2012 1:06pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce admits he shed no tears when he saw his
former club Blackburn relegated last season. Allardyce was surprisingly
sacked by Rovers owners Venky's in December 2010 with the club 13th in the
Premier League. That decision proved the catalyst for a downward spiral for
Blackburn as replacement boss Steve Kean oversaw the club's relegation last
season. Allardyce's Hammers will replace them in the top flight and while
the Dudley-born manager has sympathy for another of his former clubs Bolton,
he doesn't have the same feeling for Rovers. "I have to say there wasn't
much feeling when Blackburn were relegated because of the way they treated
me," he told The People. "Bolton is a different story because I left them
and I only did that because of their lack of ambition. "Everyone knows how
much the club means to me and always will, so I was saddened by their
relegation." Allardyce spent eight years at Bolton from 1999 to 2007,
guiding the club into Europe and a best finish of sixth in 2005.
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Carroll = survival: West Ham would have been guaranteed Prem safety if we'd
signed big Andy, says Allardyce
The Mirror
"I would probably have stuck my neck out and said we would almost certainly
stay up with him on board," said Big Sam Goal man: Andy Carroll's goals
could have kept West Ham up this year, Big Sam reckons West Ham would have
been guaranteed to stay in the Premier League with Andy Carroll on loan,
according to Sam Allardyce. The Upton Park chief has so far failed to
persuade Liverpool to allow Carroll, 23, to move on a £2million season-long
deal. Carroll himself, a £35m Kop capture from Newcastle 18 months ago, has
been unsure a switch to the newly-promoted Hammers was the right move. And
Allardyce last night said time was running out for a deal to be concluded –
and he has to move on to other targets. Allardyce said: "I would probably
have stuck my neck out and said we would almost certainly stay up with him
on board. "We wouldn't have thought we would have had any chance of signing
a player of Andy Carroll's capabilities but it became clear a couple of
weeks ago there was a possibility of a loan. Unfortunately, at this moment,
it's not the case.''
Newcastle are also considering another move for Carroll after having a loan
bid with a view to a £15m permanent deal rejected. Liverpool want at least
£20m for the big Geordie. The star is ready to move to Europe if he does not
return to Newcastle. A source close to Carroll told People Sport: ''He will
now consider a move abroad but only if he can play European football next
season. "He desperately wants to stay in the England picture and he is
convinced that only playing in Europe will help that."
Allardyce also says Blackburn and their owners Venky's got what they
deserved when they were relegated in May. Rover and out: Sam Allardyce when
he was unveiled as Blackburn boss But the West Ham boss took no pleasure
in seeing his old club Bolton also drop into the Championship. The irony was
not lost on Big Sam as the Hammers went up via the play-off final and his
former clubs went down. He said: "I have to say there wasn't much feeling
when Blackburn were relegated because of the way they treated me. "Bolton is
a different story because I left them and I only did that because of their
lack of ambition. "Everyone knows how much the club means to me and always
will, so I was saddened by their relegation."
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Join me for a knees-up! Carroll's pal Nolan again urges him to come to West
Ham
The Mirror
West Ham captain Kevin Nolan last night publicly admitted he is desperate to
try and tempt Andy Carroll to join him at Upton Park. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce has launched an ambitious bid to sign Carroll from Liverpool and
believes his best pal Nolan can help persuade him. West Ham have offered a
£17m deal which includes a £2m loan deal with a fixed arrangement to sign
him permanently next summer if they stay up while Carroll would be offered a
£100,000-a-week deal. Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is believed to be ready
to sell as Carroll does not fit into his playing style and he wants to raise
funds for new signings. Nolan, Carroll's former Newcastle team mate, said:
"I would be delighted if Andy Carroll would come and join us here. "I am not
too sure whether Brendon (Rogers) will let him out but there is lots of
speculation but there always is surrounding Andy. "If there is a chance we
would be in the reckoning with him because he is such a quality player."
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ig Sam's Olympic dream: Hammers boss says moving to the Stratford stadium
would transform West Ham into a top club
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce has his own Olympic dream – to lead out West Ham in the
Premier League at the magnificent Stratford stadium. And if his dream
becomes reality, Allardyce believes it will elevate West Ham into a
different bracket – and transform the club's fortunes for ever. Big Sam's
been blown away by the fabulous £537million Olympic Stadium and he has his
fingers crossed the Hammers can make the arena their own, despite some
die-hard fans wanting to stick with Upton Park. Allardyce has a stunning
bird's-eye view of the stadium from his swanky 40th-floor apartment in
Canary Wharf. And the prospect of taking West Ham to Stratford excites him
as much as being back in the Premier League. He said: "It would be a dream
to think I could lead West Ham out into that stadium at Stratford.
"Having a stadium like that as your home would make West Ham the size of
club it wants to be. "If you want to compete at the top level you need that
kind of stadium and it would take the club into a different league. "I
understand the fans have a history with Upton Park – but Stratford would be
a really significant step forward."
Allardyce, 57, added: "I played at Burnden Park as a Bolton player and that
ground had such a history, it was unbelievable. "But if I had gone to manage
Bolton in the Premier League at Burnden Park we wouldn't have stayed up and
they would be languishing in the lower divisions. "Because the Reebok was a
new stadium, it drew players from abroad and made them want to play in that
arena. "That's what will happen with Stratford, I am sure. I have no idea
what stage the process is at for the club to acquire the stadium as a new
home, but we all know it suits this club better than any other. "And if we
did get the go-ahead and the engineers managed the transformation from a
dedicated athletics arena into one suited to football as well, then it would
be a fantastic bonus for West Ham. The ultimate aim would be to have the
right atmosphere because that is everything to a player. "I will always
remember the roar of Wembley in the play-off final. I have never been
deafened by a crowd in all my lifetime like that. "The new stadium for West
Ham could have that kind of atmosphere."
The Hammers' play-off win over Blackpool in May was a day Allardyce will
never forget. But after rampaging back into the big time at the first
attempt, Big Sam knows the new season will be a vastly different experience
– with survival the key aim. He said: "There's no doubt the Premier League
is the only place to be.
The experience of Wembley, even though we didn't want to be there, and
winning that final was unbelievable. Ourselves, Reading and Southampton will
probably be favourites to go back down. "All three promoted teams last
season stayed up, though, so it can be done. "The Premier League has some
fears but it's nothing I haven't seen down the years or dealt with, so my
job is to hopefully use that experience to help the players we have got to
establish the club this season."
Allardyce has brought in Mali striker Modibo Maiga, defenders James Collins
and George McCartney, midfielder Mohamed Diame and keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen
– and he is targeting three more signings before the window shuts. He is
hoping the fans will be patient as he builds a base for survival – but if
they get on his back, he knows it is not personal. He said: "Hammers fans
are demanding of every manager – Avram Grant, Gianfranco Zola, Alan
Curbishley who was one of their own, Alan Pardew. "All of them had a time
when the fans weren't happy, and that's the way they are. They come from all
over the East End and travel in from Essex and they want to see excitement.
Never mind the West Ham way, they want goal action, a commitment and
talent. "When you give them that and the team shows passion, they show the
same back. "It will be a different season. We aren't going to win the number
of games we did last season, especially away from home. "That will be
particularly tough because West Ham's away record in the Premier League is
abysmal and one of the reasons why they have often been near the bottom and
in relegation fights. "It's about getting the best performance from the
players when you play the teams that are equal to you or slightly better."
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West Ham bad boy Morrison set to be snapped up by Birmingham on loan
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 01:16, 6 August 2012 | UPDATED: 01:16, 6 August 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison is set to join Birmingham on loan. Blues
boss Lee Clark has snapped up the controversial 19-year-old in a bid to
boost his Championship promotion campaign, according to the Birmingham Mail.
The former Manchester United youngster joined the Hammers in January for a
fee that could rise to £1million but has a chequered off-the-field history.
Morrison, whose United was due to expire at the end of the season, stunned
Sir Alex Ferguson by demanding a huge new contract despite making just three
first-team appearances. Ferguson expressed his exasperation with the
talented but troubled teenager, describing his demands as 'unrealistic'.
Morrison hit the headlines for the wrong reasons again in February when he
was fined £7,000 by the FA in response to a homophobic remark made on
Twitter.
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Allardyce's frustration at Carroll snub
by Setanta Staff , 05 August 2012
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is playing down the possibility of his interest
in Liverpool striker Andy Carroll being resurrected. Allardyce had been keen
on taking the England international on loan after agreeing a £2m deal with
the Reds, that could have led to a full transfer. However, the prospect of a
switch to Upton Park was a challenge which didn't appeal to the former
Newcastle hitman, who is thought to be angling for a return to the
North-East if he must leave Anfield. The Hammers manager has made no secret
of his admiration for the 23-year-old after he was deemed surplus to
requirements by Brendan Rodgers, but he is realistic about the likelihood of
Carroll having a change of heart anytime soon. Allardyce is convinced his
signing would have made their transition from the Championship to the
Premier League a lot smoother. He told the People: "I would probably have
stuck my neck out and said we would almost certainly stay up with him on
board. " "We wouldn't have thought we would have had any chance of signing a
player of Andy Carroll's capabilities but it became clear a couple of weeks
ago there was a possibility of a loan. "Unfortunately at this moment, it's
not the case."
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Lookaking for a new home: Where next for Romelu Lukaku?
Could one of these Premier League sides give Romelu Lukaku a chance to play
some football next season?
By talkSPORT magazine | Sunday, August 5, 2012
Chelsea reject Romelu Lukaku has admitted that he's willing to go on loan to
increase his chances of playing first team football next season, provided
it's in the Premier League. The 19-year-old striker was signed for a sizable
£18m from Anderlecht last year, but spent most of the year in a huff with
Chelsea's reserves. With the attacker now desperate to prove his worth to
Chelsea by making an impact at a fellow Premier League side, talkSPORT
considers some possible destinations for the Belgian...
Fulham
A jaunt down the road to Craven Cottage would certainly be easy for Lukaku,
as he wouldn't need to go through the relocation process involved in moving
out of London. The deal could be convenient for Chelsea too, as given the
amount of money they've spent so far this summer, the Blues will hope that
they won't be anywhere near Fulham in the table next season and therefore
not in competition with the Cottagers. With the possibility of Clint Dempsey
leaving Craven Cottage this summer, Fulham could do with some strengthening
up front, and Lukaku's pace and skill set him up well for linking with the
attacking talents of Moussa Dembele.
Video
Wigan Athletic
While unpredictable in their league position, the one thing you can
guarantee from Roberto Martinez's Wigan is their playing style. The Spaniard
loves attacking football, and for a striker like Lukaku who hasn't been
playing regular top flight football for a year, the prospect of being the
focal point of an attack minded team would be palatable. If the Lactics can
be convinced to sell Victor Moses to Chelsea, perhaps they could play
hardball and ask for the Blues to throw in Lukaku on loan, too. Wigan would
likely need Chelsea to cover a large portion of his wages, but just imagine
Gary Caldenbauer pinging balls up to the striker from the back...
Video
Norwich City
With Grant Holt pulling a u-turn and signing a new contract at Norwich, the
Canaries have taken an important step in attempting to sustain their Premier
League status next season. The veteran striker isn't getting any younger,
however, and as he continues into his 32nd year, Norwich could do with a
quality frontman to step in and relieve him of the strain of playing too
often. Chelsea are desperate for Romelu Lukaku to become the next Didier
Drogba, and with Norwich tending to favour a more traditional British-style
game that uses the physicality of forwards like Holt, a season at Carrow
Road could be a good way of polishing the Belgian to fit the Drogba mould.
Norwich are unlikely to exceed their excellent 12th place finish last
season, and realistically, could be scrapping it out at the bottom of the
table, so an extra dose of quality would be welcome. Nothing hardens a
player up like a relegation battle.
Video
West Ham
With their public pursuit of Andy Carroll, West Ham have made it clear that
they're in the market for a particular kind of striker and as a deal between
Liverpool and the Hammers over the forward looks unlikely, Lukaku could find
himself a home at the Boleyn Ground. At 6ft 3in Lukaku is exactly the same
height as Carroll, so if all Big Sam wants is someone to aim the ball at in
the air, then he may find a realistic alternative in the big Belgian. In
addition, Lukaku has more pace to his game than the Liverpool man and his
superior movement should provide more options for players trying to find him
with a long pass. The striker scored an abundance of headers at Anderlecht,
so he's more than comfortable with the ball in the air.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald is looking for a response from the squad after Saturday's
pre-season defeat at Ipswich Town
05.08.2012
Neil McDonald insisted West Ham United will be ready for the start of the
Barclays Premier League season, despite seeing the Hammers fall to a
disappointing 3-1 pre-season defeat at Ipswich Town on Saturday. The
assistant manager conceded that West Ham had not been at their best at
Portman Road, pointing to an experimental formation, a slow start and
individual errors as the major factors in causing the loss - factors that
the team will have to avoid repeating when they travel to Portuguese UEFA
Champions League qualifiers SC Braga on Friday evening. Talking to West Ham
TV, McDonald said pre-season was the time to make mistakes and take risks,
but confirmed that the Hammers will be prepared come the big kick-off at
home to Aston Villa on Saturday 18 August.
What was your assessment of the Ipswich Town game, Macca?
NM - "The performance wasn't very good. Our performances over pre-season
have been decent and we look for a bit of progression and in the first half
we didn't really get it, so we're disappointed with that. We played a
different system than we normally play and I think we got over-run and
outpassed in the first half. A few home truths were told at half-time and I
think we ame out and played a lot better in the second half. We created a
few chances and scored a goal ourselves and then conceded again at the end.
The performance has to be better and we've got another two weeks to make
sure they are better. We'll train and we also have the Braga game and we'll
be ready for Aston Villa."
We were 2-0 down within 20 minutes after conceding a penalty and free-kick
just outside our penalty area, while the third goal was also avoidable.
Saying that, we did improve in the second half. What were the reasons?
NM - "We don't like individual mistakes. We conceded a penalty and then a
wide free-kick and everyone has the responsibility to defend a wide
free-kick better. The third goal we had to defend better and not give the
ball away. Those are the things we'll be working very, very hard on over the
next two weeks and hopefully we'll see an improvement against Braga on
Friday. I think we played better in the second half because we told them a
few home truths about each individual performance and the unit performance
[at half-time]. If you get both of them right you play better and I think we
played better in the second half. The aim is to produce a better performance
on Friday. The aim has always been to be ready for the start of the season
and Aston Villa. We've got to be ready for Aston Villa and if our
performance is good against Braga, then we'll be happy with that."
With two weeks to go until the start of the Barclays Premier League season,
presumably yourself, Big Sam and the Board will be eager to strengthen the
squad before 18 August?
NM - "I think we've got a thinnish squad. We've obviously got two away at
the Olympics and a few injuries and we had a couple of the young lads on the
bench on Saturday. When they came on they did all right and it was a good
experience for them. Behind the scenes, if we can bring in two or three
players to stiffen the squad up and add more competition for places that
would be brilliant. It'll keep everybody on their toes as well if we can
bring new faces in."
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Haycock hails U18s
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's youth team will play for fifth place at a prestigious
pre-season tournament in Belgium
05.08.2012
West Ham United Under-18s coach Nick Haycock hailed his Hammers youngsters
after they just missed out on a place in the semi-finals at a prestigious
pre-season tournament in Belgium. The Hammers finished third in their group
at the Yale Eurofoot Tournoi in Oostduinkerke after recording two wins and
one defeat on Saturday. Indeed, West Ham were only denied a place in the
semi-finals on goal difference. After beating Cercle Brugge and losing to
Nordsjaelland on Friday, the Hammers beat Gent and Hajduk Split either side
of losing to Anderlecht on Saturday to finish just outside the top two.
Haycock, who has taken a relatively inexperienced squad to what is an
Under-19 competition, was pleased with his players' performances and
application. "We just missed out on reaching the semi-finals on goal
difference so we'll play against the Dutch team Utrecht for fifth-place on
Sunday," he confirmed. "We started Saturday against Gent from Belgium and we
beat them 2-1. It could have been five or six because we played really well.
"Kieran Bywater put us in front from a Nathan Mavila cross. They then
equalised before Elliot Lee (pictured) scored the winner from the penalty
spot. "We played a younger side against Anderlecht and lost 2-0. Again we
worked hard but we just didn't quite reach the same levels. "Our final game
was against Hajduk Split from Croatia and we needed to win by six goals to
get through to the semi-finals on goal difference. The team was outstanding
and Elliot scored two goals to put us on course. Unfortunately, we conceded
just after half-time and then Elliot missed a penalty and had a shot cleared
off the line, so we missed out on goal difference. "While we would have
loved to have won the tournament, we've been delighted with the way our
preparations have gone in pre-season. We have worked on team shape, pressing
and creating chances in the final third. It's been a terrific tournament for
us. "We have played very, very well with a young side."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel on his way
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 5th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Reports tonight suggest that Ravel Morrison is set to join Birmingham City
on loan. The former Manchester United youngster joined West Ham in January
having been let go by the Premier League runners-up after Red Devils boss
Alex Ferguson finally lost his patience with the player. But according to
reports tonight, the 19-year-old - who has made just one appearance for West
Ham's first team - is set to join Championship side City on loan for an as
yet undetermined period. Despite having joined West Ham on their recent tour
of Germany, Morrison flew back to England after just two days at the team's
base citing illness. However reports emanating from the club a few days
later claimed that Morrison was instead suffering from toothache. The waters
were muddied further last week when the precocious midfielder was said to be
in Disneyland, having sent a series of Tweets from the theme park.
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Nolan: I'm in the mood for Andy
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 5th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
It seems that nobody at West Ham is refusing to rule out yet another move
for Liverpool striker Andy Carroll - with captain Kevin Nolan the latest to
speak about the possibility of signing his former team mate. Nolan and
Carroll became best friends whilst working together at Newcastle United and
it that link which West Ham are once again looking to exploit as they
continue to hunt the England international. Despite having been told that
the 23-year-old Gateshead-born forward would (naturally) prefer a return to
his home club, West Ham are refusing to give up the chase hoping that as the
transfer window deadline approaches, Carroll may have a change of heart.
With that in mind, the England international's former landlord has once
again appeared in this morning's media in order to express his approval at
the club's continued attempts to sign him. "I would be delighted if Andy
would come and join us here," Nolan is quoted as saying in a national
tabloid this morning. "I am not too sure whether Brendan Rodgers will let
him leave but there is lots of speculation – there always is surrounding
Andy. If there is a chance, we would be in the reckoning for him because he
is such a quality player."
Meanwhile manager Sam Allardyce has backed Nolan's stance by telling a
different tabloid: "I would have probably stuck my neck out and said we
would almost certainly stay up with him on board. "We wouldn't have thought
we would have had any chance of signing a player of Andy Carroll's
capabilities but it became clear a couple of weeks ago there was a
possibility of a loan. Unfortunately, at this moment, it's not the case."
West Ham have previously offered £2million to take Carroll on loan for the
duration of the 2012/13 season with a further fee of around £17million to
follow in the event that the deal be made permanent. Liverpool - who are
understandably reticent to sell the player back to his former club for less
than half the £35million figure they paid for him just 18 months ago - are
understood to have accepted West Ham's terms.
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Big Sam - Carroll keeps us up
Nolan still hoping former team-mate makes Upton Park move
Last Updated: August 5, 2012 7:22pm
SSN
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce believes the signing of Andy Carroll would have
guaranteed Premier League survival for the Hammers. The newly-promoted side
have failed to persuade the 23-year-old target-man to join them from
Liverpool in a £2million season-long loan deal. Carroll does not appear to
be central to Brendan Rodgers' plans at Anfield and that had opened up the
possibility of a switch but the player himself is thought to be unwilling to
make the move. Allardyce is disappointed with that decision - as he believes
the arrival of the England international could have ensured a successful
season. "I would have probably stuck my neck out and said we would almost
certainly stay up with him on board," Allardyce told The People. "We
wouldn't have thought we would have had any chance of signing a player of
Andy Carroll's capabilities but it became clear a couple of weeks ago there
was a possibility of a loan. "Unfortunately, at this moment, it's not the
case."
Delighted
Hammers skipper Kevin Nolan is hoping that situation changes as he would
welcome the opportunity to link up with his former Newcastle team-mate once
again.
"I would be delighted if Andy would come and join us here," Nolan told the
Daily Star. "I am not too sure whether Brendan Rodgers will let him leave
but there is lots of speculation - there always is surrounding Andy. "If
there is a chance, we would be in the reckoning for him because he is such a
quality player."
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Allardyce not sorry for Rovers
Bolton is a different story, admits Hammers boss
Last Updated: August 5, 2012 1:06pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce admits he shed no tears when he saw his
former club Blackburn relegated last season. Allardyce was surprisingly
sacked by Rovers owners Venky's in December 2010 with the club 13th in the
Premier League. That decision proved the catalyst for a downward spiral for
Blackburn as replacement boss Steve Kean oversaw the club's relegation last
season. Allardyce's Hammers will replace them in the top flight and while
the Dudley-born manager has sympathy for another of his former clubs Bolton,
he doesn't have the same feeling for Rovers. "I have to say there wasn't
much feeling when Blackburn were relegated because of the way they treated
me," he told The People. "Bolton is a different story because I left them
and I only did that because of their lack of ambition. "Everyone knows how
much the club means to me and always will, so I was saddened by their
relegation." Allardyce spent eight years at Bolton from 1999 to 2007,
guiding the club into Europe and a best finish of sixth in 2005.
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Carroll = survival: West Ham would have been guaranteed Prem safety if we'd
signed big Andy, says Allardyce
The Mirror
"I would probably have stuck my neck out and said we would almost certainly
stay up with him on board," said Big Sam Goal man: Andy Carroll's goals
could have kept West Ham up this year, Big Sam reckons West Ham would have
been guaranteed to stay in the Premier League with Andy Carroll on loan,
according to Sam Allardyce. The Upton Park chief has so far failed to
persuade Liverpool to allow Carroll, 23, to move on a £2million season-long
deal. Carroll himself, a £35m Kop capture from Newcastle 18 months ago, has
been unsure a switch to the newly-promoted Hammers was the right move. And
Allardyce last night said time was running out for a deal to be concluded –
and he has to move on to other targets. Allardyce said: "I would probably
have stuck my neck out and said we would almost certainly stay up with him
on board. "We wouldn't have thought we would have had any chance of signing
a player of Andy Carroll's capabilities but it became clear a couple of
weeks ago there was a possibility of a loan. Unfortunately, at this moment,
it's not the case.''
Newcastle are also considering another move for Carroll after having a loan
bid with a view to a £15m permanent deal rejected. Liverpool want at least
£20m for the big Geordie. The star is ready to move to Europe if he does not
return to Newcastle. A source close to Carroll told People Sport: ''He will
now consider a move abroad but only if he can play European football next
season. "He desperately wants to stay in the England picture and he is
convinced that only playing in Europe will help that."
Allardyce also says Blackburn and their owners Venky's got what they
deserved when they were relegated in May. Rover and out: Sam Allardyce when
he was unveiled as Blackburn boss But the West Ham boss took no pleasure
in seeing his old club Bolton also drop into the Championship. The irony was
not lost on Big Sam as the Hammers went up via the play-off final and his
former clubs went down. He said: "I have to say there wasn't much feeling
when Blackburn were relegated because of the way they treated me. "Bolton is
a different story because I left them and I only did that because of their
lack of ambition. "Everyone knows how much the club means to me and always
will, so I was saddened by their relegation."
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Join me for a knees-up! Carroll's pal Nolan again urges him to come to West
Ham
The Mirror
West Ham captain Kevin Nolan last night publicly admitted he is desperate to
try and tempt Andy Carroll to join him at Upton Park. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce has launched an ambitious bid to sign Carroll from Liverpool and
believes his best pal Nolan can help persuade him. West Ham have offered a
£17m deal which includes a £2m loan deal with a fixed arrangement to sign
him permanently next summer if they stay up while Carroll would be offered a
£100,000-a-week deal. Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is believed to be ready
to sell as Carroll does not fit into his playing style and he wants to raise
funds for new signings. Nolan, Carroll's former Newcastle team mate, said:
"I would be delighted if Andy Carroll would come and join us here. "I am not
too sure whether Brendon (Rogers) will let him out but there is lots of
speculation but there always is surrounding Andy. "If there is a chance we
would be in the reckoning with him because he is such a quality player."
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ig Sam's Olympic dream: Hammers boss says moving to the Stratford stadium
would transform West Ham into a top club
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce has his own Olympic dream – to lead out West Ham in the
Premier League at the magnificent Stratford stadium. And if his dream
becomes reality, Allardyce believes it will elevate West Ham into a
different bracket – and transform the club's fortunes for ever. Big Sam's
been blown away by the fabulous £537million Olympic Stadium and he has his
fingers crossed the Hammers can make the arena their own, despite some
die-hard fans wanting to stick with Upton Park. Allardyce has a stunning
bird's-eye view of the stadium from his swanky 40th-floor apartment in
Canary Wharf. And the prospect of taking West Ham to Stratford excites him
as much as being back in the Premier League. He said: "It would be a dream
to think I could lead West Ham out into that stadium at Stratford.
"Having a stadium like that as your home would make West Ham the size of
club it wants to be. "If you want to compete at the top level you need that
kind of stadium and it would take the club into a different league. "I
understand the fans have a history with Upton Park – but Stratford would be
a really significant step forward."
Allardyce, 57, added: "I played at Burnden Park as a Bolton player and that
ground had such a history, it was unbelievable. "But if I had gone to manage
Bolton in the Premier League at Burnden Park we wouldn't have stayed up and
they would be languishing in the lower divisions. "Because the Reebok was a
new stadium, it drew players from abroad and made them want to play in that
arena. "That's what will happen with Stratford, I am sure. I have no idea
what stage the process is at for the club to acquire the stadium as a new
home, but we all know it suits this club better than any other. "And if we
did get the go-ahead and the engineers managed the transformation from a
dedicated athletics arena into one suited to football as well, then it would
be a fantastic bonus for West Ham. The ultimate aim would be to have the
right atmosphere because that is everything to a player. "I will always
remember the roar of Wembley in the play-off final. I have never been
deafened by a crowd in all my lifetime like that. "The new stadium for West
Ham could have that kind of atmosphere."
The Hammers' play-off win over Blackpool in May was a day Allardyce will
never forget. But after rampaging back into the big time at the first
attempt, Big Sam knows the new season will be a vastly different experience
– with survival the key aim. He said: "There's no doubt the Premier League
is the only place to be.
The experience of Wembley, even though we didn't want to be there, and
winning that final was unbelievable. Ourselves, Reading and Southampton will
probably be favourites to go back down. "All three promoted teams last
season stayed up, though, so it can be done. "The Premier League has some
fears but it's nothing I haven't seen down the years or dealt with, so my
job is to hopefully use that experience to help the players we have got to
establish the club this season."
Allardyce has brought in Mali striker Modibo Maiga, defenders James Collins
and George McCartney, midfielder Mohamed Diame and keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen
– and he is targeting three more signings before the window shuts. He is
hoping the fans will be patient as he builds a base for survival – but if
they get on his back, he knows it is not personal. He said: "Hammers fans
are demanding of every manager – Avram Grant, Gianfranco Zola, Alan
Curbishley who was one of their own, Alan Pardew. "All of them had a time
when the fans weren't happy, and that's the way they are. They come from all
over the East End and travel in from Essex and they want to see excitement.
Never mind the West Ham way, they want goal action, a commitment and
talent. "When you give them that and the team shows passion, they show the
same back. "It will be a different season. We aren't going to win the number
of games we did last season, especially away from home. "That will be
particularly tough because West Ham's away record in the Premier League is
abysmal and one of the reasons why they have often been near the bottom and
in relegation fights. "It's about getting the best performance from the
players when you play the teams that are equal to you or slightly better."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham bad boy Morrison set to be snapped up by Birmingham on loan
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 01:16, 6 August 2012 | UPDATED: 01:16, 6 August 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison is set to join Birmingham on loan. Blues
boss Lee Clark has snapped up the controversial 19-year-old in a bid to
boost his Championship promotion campaign, according to the Birmingham Mail.
The former Manchester United youngster joined the Hammers in January for a
fee that could rise to £1million but has a chequered off-the-field history.
Morrison, whose United was due to expire at the end of the season, stunned
Sir Alex Ferguson by demanding a huge new contract despite making just three
first-team appearances. Ferguson expressed his exasperation with the
talented but troubled teenager, describing his demands as 'unrealistic'.
Morrison hit the headlines for the wrong reasons again in February when he
was fined £7,000 by the FA in response to a homophobic remark made on
Twitter.
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Allardyce's frustration at Carroll snub
by Setanta Staff , 05 August 2012
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is playing down the possibility of his interest
in Liverpool striker Andy Carroll being resurrected. Allardyce had been keen
on taking the England international on loan after agreeing a £2m deal with
the Reds, that could have led to a full transfer. However, the prospect of a
switch to Upton Park was a challenge which didn't appeal to the former
Newcastle hitman, who is thought to be angling for a return to the
North-East if he must leave Anfield. The Hammers manager has made no secret
of his admiration for the 23-year-old after he was deemed surplus to
requirements by Brendan Rodgers, but he is realistic about the likelihood of
Carroll having a change of heart anytime soon. Allardyce is convinced his
signing would have made their transition from the Championship to the
Premier League a lot smoother. He told the People: "I would probably have
stuck my neck out and said we would almost certainly stay up with him on
board. " "We wouldn't have thought we would have had any chance of signing a
player of Andy Carroll's capabilities but it became clear a couple of weeks
ago there was a possibility of a loan. "Unfortunately at this moment, it's
not the case."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lookaking for a new home: Where next for Romelu Lukaku?
Could one of these Premier League sides give Romelu Lukaku a chance to play
some football next season?
By talkSPORT magazine | Sunday, August 5, 2012
Chelsea reject Romelu Lukaku has admitted that he's willing to go on loan to
increase his chances of playing first team football next season, provided
it's in the Premier League. The 19-year-old striker was signed for a sizable
£18m from Anderlecht last year, but spent most of the year in a huff with
Chelsea's reserves. With the attacker now desperate to prove his worth to
Chelsea by making an impact at a fellow Premier League side, talkSPORT
considers some possible destinations for the Belgian...
Fulham
A jaunt down the road to Craven Cottage would certainly be easy for Lukaku,
as he wouldn't need to go through the relocation process involved in moving
out of London. The deal could be convenient for Chelsea too, as given the
amount of money they've spent so far this summer, the Blues will hope that
they won't be anywhere near Fulham in the table next season and therefore
not in competition with the Cottagers. With the possibility of Clint Dempsey
leaving Craven Cottage this summer, Fulham could do with some strengthening
up front, and Lukaku's pace and skill set him up well for linking with the
attacking talents of Moussa Dembele.
Video
Wigan Athletic
While unpredictable in their league position, the one thing you can
guarantee from Roberto Martinez's Wigan is their playing style. The Spaniard
loves attacking football, and for a striker like Lukaku who hasn't been
playing regular top flight football for a year, the prospect of being the
focal point of an attack minded team would be palatable. If the Lactics can
be convinced to sell Victor Moses to Chelsea, perhaps they could play
hardball and ask for the Blues to throw in Lukaku on loan, too. Wigan would
likely need Chelsea to cover a large portion of his wages, but just imagine
Gary Caldenbauer pinging balls up to the striker from the back...
Video
Norwich City
With Grant Holt pulling a u-turn and signing a new contract at Norwich, the
Canaries have taken an important step in attempting to sustain their Premier
League status next season. The veteran striker isn't getting any younger,
however, and as he continues into his 32nd year, Norwich could do with a
quality frontman to step in and relieve him of the strain of playing too
often. Chelsea are desperate for Romelu Lukaku to become the next Didier
Drogba, and with Norwich tending to favour a more traditional British-style
game that uses the physicality of forwards like Holt, a season at Carrow
Road could be a good way of polishing the Belgian to fit the Drogba mould.
Norwich are unlikely to exceed their excellent 12th place finish last
season, and realistically, could be scrapping it out at the bottom of the
table, so an extra dose of quality would be welcome. Nothing hardens a
player up like a relegation battle.
Video
West Ham
With their public pursuit of Andy Carroll, West Ham have made it clear that
they're in the market for a particular kind of striker and as a deal between
Liverpool and the Hammers over the forward looks unlikely, Lukaku could find
himself a home at the Boleyn Ground. At 6ft 3in Lukaku is exactly the same
height as Carroll, so if all Big Sam wants is someone to aim the ball at in
the air, then he may find a realistic alternative in the big Belgian. In
addition, Lukaku has more pace to his game than the Liverpool man and his
superior movement should provide more options for players trying to find him
with a long pass. The striker scored an abundance of headers at Anderlecht,
so he's more than comfortable with the ball in the air.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, August 5
Daily WHUFC News - 5th August 2012
Ipswich Town 3-1 West Ham United FT
WHUFC.com
The Hammers suffer a pre-season defeat by Paul Jewell's men at Portman Road
04.08.2012
Ipswich Town v West Ham United
Pre-season match
Portman Road
Saturday 4 August 2012
Kick-off: 3pm
Final score - Ipswich Town 3-1 West Ham United
92 mins - Loach stands firm to stop West Ham halving the deficit. Maynard streaks forward before releasing Vaz Te with a through ball, but the goalkeeper dives to his left to push the ball away. Corner. It comes to nothing and moments later the final whistle is blown. We'll have highlights and reaction from today's game on West Ham TV soon.
90 mins - Into the final minute and a Noble free-kick comes to nothing inside the box. It's going to be a defeat for Big Sam's men, but they have improved after the break. They will need to eradicate the individual mistakes when the Barclays Premier League season starts, though. We're going to have two added minutes.
88 mins - Noble's delivery is low and cleared at the near post. Ipswich break after a Fanimo mis-kick but thankfully Henderson is there to gather the cross when it comes over.
87 mins - West Ham have a corner now. Taylor drives it across but it's too high for Collins to direct his header goalwards. Collins does win a throw, though, and from it Vaz Te wins a free-kick. Noble takes and Carson heads behind for a corner.
85 mins - Collins gives the ball away and then is beaten by the pass to Carson. The No7 shoots and the ball takes a deflection as it flashes past the upright. Before the corner, Whight replaces Cresswell. The ball comes over and breaks to Kourouma, who leans back and shoots too high.
83 mins - GOAL! Moncur slides but fails to keep control of the ball. Instead, Scotland takes possession and runs towards the box before cutting onto his right foot and curling the shot past Noble and Henderson and into the far corner. Great strike.
82 mins - Taylor has the chance. Demel lifts a cross to the far post and Loach doesn't come. Taylor rises and heads back across the face of goal and behind. So close!
81 mins - Into the final ten minutes and both young substitutes have been involved. Can they help West Ham to secure a second two-goal comeback in the space of a week?
79 mins - West Ham replace Jaaskelainen with Henderson in goal, while Murray comes on for Hyam for the home side.
78 mins - It's 4-2 to the Development Squad now! Blair Turgott has scored. That is some scoreline for the youngsters against the AFC Wimbledon first team.
77 mins - That's O'Neil's last contribution as he is replaced by George Moncur, an England Under-19 midfielder. Moments later, Noble lifts a cross over and Collins heads well wide.
76 mins - West Ham have a decent chance to draw level. Vaz Te collects and runs at the Ipswich back four before squaring for O'Neil. Unfortunately, the midfielder does not quite connect and shoots straight at Loach. The away fans are making a bit more noise as their team tries to get back in it.
74 mins - Cole is replaced by Fanimo before the game restarts. The No23 is an England Under-18 international winger with a sweet left foot.
73 mins - GOAL! Almost out of nowhere West Ham are right back in it. Taylor has the ball 25 yards out and is given time and space to pick his spot. A swing of the trusty left boot and the ball bounces in off the base of the right-hand post! Pinpoint finish from the No14.
71 mins - Ipswich replace Luongo with Kourouma. The little Italian gets an ovation from the Ipswich fans. He did play well today. The crowd today is 7,682 with more than 2,000 of them from West Ham.
69 mins - Collins rakes the ball out 50 yards wide left for O'Brien, who heads on for Vaz Te. He has Cole and Maynard running into the box, but slices his left-foot cross behind the goal and it bounces into the stand.
67 mins - O'Neil runs forward but his pass finds Cole offside inside the penalty area. The break in play sees Emmanuel-Thomas replaced by Byron Lawrence.
66 mins - Amazing news from Kingsmeadow where the Development Squad are now 3-2 up! I am told Piquionne may have scored a hat-trick, but that is not confirmed.
64 mins - Scotland barrels forward through the midfield before laying the ball wide right for Carson. He cuts inside on to his left foot and shoots, but drags the effort wide of the near post. Jaaskelainen had it covered.
61 mins - Changes from both managers. Edwards and Smith are replaced by Ainsley and Delaney for Ipswich, while Maynard is on for Maiga for the Hammers.
59 mins - An update from the Development Squad where Luke Moore had put AFC Wimbledon 2-0 up before half-time. However, Frederic Piquionne has pulled a goal back.
56 mins - Maiga and Cole combine before Taylor crosses low, but Smith clears. West Ham come again and Taylor cushions the pass down to Vaz Te. He loses his man and shoots hard and low. Loach dives to his left and makes the save before plunging on to the ball before it can get too far away from him.
55 mins - Ipswich attack through substitutes Scotland and Stevenson before the latter shoots from 22 yards - too high.
53 mins - Maiga loses the ball to Hyam before winning it back and being felled by the Ipswich No6. There have been glimpses from the Mali man and he will get better as he spends more time getting to know his new team-mates.
52 mins - Demel initially does well before passing straight to Edwards. He comes forward before shooting from 25 yards, but it is too high.
48 mins - Ipswich are first to show again as Cresswell overlaps and slams a cross in low to the near post. Collins stretches out his right leg to concede the corner. Emmanuel-Thomas tries to dribble into the box but Maiga slows him down and the Hammers clear.
46 mins - The home side get the second half underway. West Ham look like they are now employing a 4-3-3 formation, with Maiga and Vaz Te either side of Cole.
Ipswich are making some changes - Jason Scotland and Ryan Stevenson are on for Chopra and Martin. O'Brien on for Potts for West Ham.
Judging by the rigorous warm-up he is undertaking at the moment, I think Joey O'Brien could be on after the break. He is already stripped down to his match kit.
46 mins - Half-time. West Ham will have to improve after the break if they are to avoid defeat here. Two set-plays led to two Ipswich goals and the hosts have been the better team. I know it's a cliche, but it's only pre-season!
45 mins - Another decent passing move from the home side ends with Martin making room for a shot on his left foot, but Collins is out quickly to charge it down. Ipswich have certainly moved the ball well through the midfield. They have been fluent at times.
44 mins - On the plus side, an Ipswich staff member has just brought a kettle and some mugs up the steps to the Press Box. A half-time cuppa will help!
41 mins - Vaz Te and Taylor have swapped wings. Cole has the ball in the midfield, turns and looks up and then lifts a pass through to Loach.
39 mins - The wonders of social media tell me that the Development Squad are trailing 1-0 at AFC Wimbledon through Luke Moore's goal. Emmanuel Thomas has another go here and again the shot is deflected wide. Cole heads the corner clear at the near post.
36 mins - Reid has a few words to say to Martin after a coming together near the byline. The referee has a chat with both players, but takes no further action. Reid was trying to hold off the Ipswich midfielder and took exception to the robust nature of Martin's challenge.
34 mins - A few moments of calm as both teams struggle to maintain possession. Just to remind you that the Development Squad are also in action this afternoon at AFC Wimbledon. We'll have a report from that fixture later today.
31 mins - Taylor wins the ball back inside the Ipswich half and it breaks to Maiga. He pushes the ball in front of him and then shoots from 25 yards, but it flies well over the top.
30 mins - Ipswich have a corner as Edwards' low shot takes a deflection off Taylor. Martin deilvers and Jaaskelainen makes the catch high above his head.
28 mins - Ipswich shout for another penalty but this time Potts gets his body in the way and shields the ball from Chopra. Good defending from the 18-year-old. West Ham then go up the other end and Loach's clearance is headed into the centre by Taylor, but Cole cannot benefit.
26 mins - This time Smith challenges Cole in the air and the foul is given. The initial free-kick is cleared to Noble, whose follow-up header is also hacked away. West Ham are having a spell of pressure, however.
24 mins - Some patient build-up from West Ham ends with Noble clipping a cross towards Cole. He flicks-on for Maiga, but the assistant referee flags for a foul by Cole on Smith.
23 mins - Hmmm... Emmanuel-Thomas jinks past Collins and has a sight of goal from 18 yards. He sidefoots low and the ball just dribbles past the right-hand post. That could have been 3-0 with a slightly better aim from the former Arsenal youngster.
21 mins - West Ham try to break down their right through Demel and Vaz Te, but Cresswell gets a toe in to prevent the Ivorian's pass sending the No12 away. West Ham do win a throw, but they can do nothing with it.
19 mins - GOAL! Not a great start. Martin curls the free-kick over to the far post and Chambers is unmarked. He cranes his neck and sends the header back past Jaaskelainen and into the corner of the net. West Ham will need to stop conceding set pieces in and around their box.
18 mins - Ipswich have another chance to put a ball into the box as Potts clips the heels of Martin. Free-kick three yards outside the penalty area.
17 mins - The Hammers try to respond and win a free-kick down their left. Taylor and Potts work a crossing chance, but again it's too close to Loach and the goalkeeper makes a smart catch low down.
15 mins - GOAL! Emmanuel-Thomas runs at Taylor before passing square to Martin inside the penalty area. O'Neil brings him down with a clumsy challenge and referee Pat Miller blows his whistle and points to the spot. Chopra strolls up and sends Jaaskelainen the wrong way. Ipswich lead.
14 mins - Vaz Te seeks out Taylor with a raking 40-yard pass. The No14 controls and then tries to find Cole in the middle, but his cross bounces too close to Loach, who collects. It's been an open game so far.
11 mins - Cole wins a flick-on to himself before finding Maiga. He gets past Edwards and crosses low, but Chambers clears for a throw. From it, Cole finds Potts, who wins a corner as his cross flicks off Edwards. It comes to nothing initially as Noble's cross is headed clear. Maiga keeps the ball alive and Taylor finds Potts in space. He crosses high towards Maiga, but Smith glances the ball away.
10 mins - Vaz Te shows no ill-effects as he pushes the ball into space behind Cresswell and races forward. Carson tracks his run and makes the sliding challenge to concede a throw. West Ham try to force an opening, but concede a free-kick for a foul instead...
9 mins - Vaz Te is felled inside the centre circle. He has the physio on for a while but is back on again after some treatment.
8 mins - Close again. Emmanuel-Thomas runs at Potts before clipping the pass back to the supporting Edwards. The Trinidad and Tobago man again crosses low and Chopra dummies. The ball hits Collins before the Welshman boots the ball clear.
7 mins - Ipswich come again and this time Collins' tackle is ill-timed. Free-kick. Emmanuel-Thomas fancies this one from just over 25 yards. He steps up and curls his shot a few yards over the top. West Ham have not settled yet.
6 mins - James Collins is back! Ginge wins a header but nods it straight to Luongo. The home fans encourage the Tottenham loanee to shoot. He does, but Collins makes a thunderous block to clear.
4 mins - Ipswich having the majority of possession so far and they work an opening well down their right. Full-back Edwards is a former winger and shows his quality by whipping in a low cross that Chopra meets at the near post. He shoots first-time and the ball flies wide. Decent chance.
2 mins - Maiga is up front with Cole. Vaz Te is playing wide right in a 4-4-2 formation. Taylor is on the left. The rest are set out as you would expect. Reid is playing on the left of the two centre-backs.
3.02pm - O'Neil and Vaz Te get the game underway. The ball goes back to Potts, whose clearance is helped back into the West Ham half by Chopra. Reid heads out for a throw. Low-key start!
3pm - There is a decent crowd inside Portman Road for today's game and they are making some noise as the team lineups are read out. I'm afraid the low stand roof in front of me means I can't see how many West Ham supporters are here!
2.58pm - Here they come. West Ham are in claret and blue shirts, sky blue shorts and claret socks and are captained this afternoon by Mark Noble. Noble is sporting lime green boots, while Gary O'Neil has yellow footwear on. Very flash, but perhaps not as flash as Matt Taylor and Ricardo Vaz Te's PINK boots!
2.55pm - OK, the sun is out after a recent cloudburst and the two teams should be with us soon. I'm looking forward to seeing Maiga in action this afternoon, and of course to seeing the Reid/Collins combination at the heart of the back four. Big Sam will want West Ham to put on a show today, with just a fortnight to go until the big kick-off.
2.50pm - OK, we have the Ipswich lineup and substitutes...
Ipswich Town: Loach, Edwards, Cresswell, Chambers, Smith, Hyam, Carson, Luongo, Emmanuel-Thomas, Martin, Chopra
Subs: Lee-Barrett, Murray, Ainsley, Delaney, Kourouma, Lawrence, Whight
2.15pm - Just to clarify, Kevin Nolan is missing today as he continues his treatment for a minor toe injury, while George McCartney has a slight back problem. Jack Collison is back in full training, but this game has come just too soon for him. James Tomkins and Mohamed Diame are both on Olympic Games duty.
1.55pm - OK, we have the West Ham team news. Modibo Maiga starts, as does James Collins, while there are places on the bench for George Moncur, Sebastian Lletget and Matthias Fanimo. Raphael Spiegel has travelled with the squad for experience, but Stephen Henderson is the substitute goalkeeper.
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Reid, Collins, Potts, O'Neil, Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te, Maiga, Cole
Subs: Henderson, O'Brien, Moncur, Lletget, Fanimo, Maynard
Good afternoon and welcome to Suffolk for today's pre-season match between npower Championship side Ipswich Town and West Ham United.
The Hammers have ventured up the A12 for their penultimate pre-season fixture ahead of the new Barclays Premier League season, which begins with the visit of Aston Villa to the Boleyn Ground on Saturday 18 August. Don't forget that tickets are selling fast for the season opener - to make sure of your seat, buy a Season Ticket or match ticket today!
Manager Sam Allardyce and his players will be determined to get one over the Tractor Boys after suffering home and away defeats by Paul Jewell's team last season - including a shock 5-1 reverse here at Portman Road in January.
Big Sam has a squad combining youth and experience at his disposal, with new signings Modibo Maiga and Raphael Spiegel hoping to make their maiden first-team appearances on UK soil. The manager has also included young professionals Dan Potts, George Moncur and Sebastian Lletget in his squad in the absence of the injured George McCartney and Kevin Nolan and Jack Collison, who has only recently returned to full training.
For the hosts, former West Ham Academy player Jimmy Bullard needs no introduction to Hammers fans, while Ipswich will also have new signings Scott Loach and Luke Chambers on duty.Chambers, you might remember, scored an own-goal for West Ham in their 4-1 win at Nottingham Forest last August!
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Difficult day for Demel
WHUFC.com
Guy Demel knows there is hard work to be done after a disappointing pre-season defeat at Ipswich Town
04.08.2012
Guy Demel admitted West Ham United did not perform well enough in Saturday's 3-1 pre-season defeat at Ipswich Town. Employing an experimental 4-4-2 formation, the Hammers started slowly at Portman Road and found themselves two goals down to the npower Championship side within the opening 20 minutes. The first was a Michael Chopra penalty, while the second saw an unmarked Luke Chambers head in Lee Martin's free-kick. West Ham did improve after half-time and Matt Taylor halved the deficit, but Ipswich added a late third when Jason Scotland took advantage of another mistake to fire into the far corner. Demel, who completed a full 90 minutes at right-back, conceded that the Hammers had not deserved anything from the game. However, he told West Ham TV that he is confident the squad will have ironed out any deficiencies come the big Barclays Premier League kick-off against Aston Villa on 18 August. "I think we took the game seriously but we didn't play well early in the game and we conceded two goals," said the Ivorian. "After that, it was difficult for us to come back because Ipswich played with confidence. It was hard for us to get the ball and to play our football. "There are a lot of things we can learn from this game. They were bad things for us, but even if it wasn't nice and we weren't happy with the result, it was better that it happened now because we can work hard over the next two weeks to prepare for the Premier League."
The players will be back on the training pitch at Chadwell Heath on Sunday morning before flying to Portugal early next week for their final pre-season fixture. West Ham take on UEFA Champions League qualifiers SC Braga in Portugal on Friday night and Demel believes the match will be vital in shaping the team's preparations for the season ahead. In short, the No20 said they could not afford to repeate the mistakes made against Ipswich against opposition as good as Braga. "I think this will be most important game of our pre-season because it is the last game. We have played some good and bad games in pre-season, but in this one there will be no excuse because it is the last one before we play Aston Villa in the Premier League. "We must be at 100 per cent physically and mentally. This game will give us more information about how well we are and where we will be at the start of the season."
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Dev Squad too strong for Dons
WHUFC.com
The development squad were impressive winners on Saturday against AFC Wimbledon
04.08.2012
The Development Squad completed a sensational comeback against AFC Wimbledon by coming from 2-0 down to win 4-2 on Saturday afternoon. Freddie Piquionne led the charge - scoring a nine minute hat-trick at the beginning of the second half after a frustrating opening period. Speaking after the game, development squad manager Ian Hendon praised his side for their response after a disappointing start. "We started a little slow and found ourselves two goals down, but after that we responded well and created a host of good opportunities. "We came out second half and took our chances, playing a lot better especially at the back so I'm really pleased with the turnaround."
Hendon stated last week that he wanted to see his side to show more creativity and they did just that with Rob Hall and Blair Turgott both impressing after a spell away with the first team in Germany last week. "I got a lot of the lads back this week who have been away in Germany like Blair and Rob, we also had Jordan Spence in the side today and players like that only add to the strength to my squad. "That showed today playing against a very good team in AFC Wimbledon and getting a few of the older lads back definitely helps," said Hendon. "Last week we had first and second year scholars, we were still quite young today but the lads did very well."
Turgott got the Hammers' final goal, rounding off an exceptionally hard working performance, by holding off left-back Warren Cummings before firing the ball past Steve Collins in the home side's goal. Another player who stood out for the Hammers was keeper Jake Larkin who made a string of impressive stops, much to the delight of his manager. "Jake did exceptionally well today, he made some very good saves in the first half when we were very much up against it. "His distribution up to the front men was also very good as was his kicking; I'm very pleased for him."
Hendon also praised first year scholar Courtney Homan who put in a solid defensive display. "Whilst we're talking about defence I want to mention Courtney who came in as a first year scholar and played extremely well." Freddie Piquionne put in a man of the match performance, and Hendon is hopeful the Frenchman can now kick on as the season unfolds. "Freddie has shown his quality today and I think he would be the first to admit that he hasn't done that enough in recent games, unluckily for Wimbledon they've caught him on a good day."
The development squad will participate in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League this season with a trip to Reading first on the agenda. Hendon is confident that his pre-season preparations will ensure the side are ready to hit the ground running. "Pre-season is all about being fit, ready and motivated for the start of the season and we showed signs today that everything is starting to come together. "I had around eight or nine of my players out on loan at once last year and that won't happen this year. "Some players will leave and they need to in order to gain valuable experience but they will also gain that here now we have fixtures of our own."
Next up for Hendon and his side is a trip to Northampton on Tuesday night before rounding off their pre-season schedule against Dagenham and Redbridge. The development squad will then kick off their league campaign against Reading on the 17 August, which is followed by a trip to Everton and round two of the Capital One Cup.
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Mohsni deal in the balance
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 4th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Southend United are still considering a bid from West Ham for central defender Bilel Mohsni. The Hammers submitted an offer - thought to be in the region of £150,000 - for the 25-year-old Frenchman earlier today and initial reports suggested that it had been rejected by the League Two club. But according to local press, those reports were premature with Southend still considering West Ham's offer for a player who has just twelve months left on his current contract and who has already signalled a desire to try his luck elsewhere. An unnamed spokesperson for the Shrimpers told the Echo today: "The offer is still being discussed by the football club," adding that "it hasn't been accepted or rejected at this stage."
Meanwhile the player himself added: "At this moment I don't know what is happening, but I think I should find out more over the weekend." The defender, who can also play in attack made his debut in claret and blue at Grays last month before featuring for West Ham at Colchester and then in United's recent tour of Germany.
Speaking last month about his future away from Southend, he said: "I am leaving the club. I don't know where I will sign but I want to play at a higher level."
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Oh no, Momo
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 4th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's new signing Momo Diame could miss the start of the Premier League season after limping off during Senegal's Olympic Games quarter-final defeat against Mexico. The Senegalese captain appeared to suffer a hamstring strain late on in the second half of the match, which the Mexicans eventually won 4-2 after extra time. Having gone in for a challenge close to the half way line, the 25-year-old immediately pulled up sharply clutching his thigh. And just a few minutes later Diame was replaced by Serigne Mbodji as he trudged forlornly down the Wembley tunnel. Diame, who signed for West Ham in June on a free transfer having decided to leave Wigan at the end of last season cpatained his country during all three of their group games at the competition, which saw the Senegalese accrue five points with two draws and a win. Diame's new team mate James Tomkins is in the Great Britain squad which faces Korea in the last Olympic Games quarter final fixture later this evening.
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Ipswich Town 3 West Ham Utd 1
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 4th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham suffered a second successive defeat at Portman Road in 2012 as Sam Allardyce's side were well-beaten by the Championship side. Back in January, West Ham suffered their heaviest defeat of the 2011/12 season when going down 5-1 to the Tractor Boys. And there was further disappointment for Allardyce and his players as they went down 3-1 to a lively Town side in Suffolk this afternoon. Whilst Kevin Nolan and George McCartney, both nursing minor injuries missed today's game - not to mention the absence of Olympians James Tomkins and Momo Diame - there was a welcome recall for James Collins, making his first appearance for the Hammers since returning to the club from Aston Villa.
However the central defender's homecoming was abruptly spoilt with just quarter-of-an-hour on the clock when Michael Chopra put the home side one-up from the penalty spot after Gary O'Neil was adjudged to have felled Lee Martin inside the penalty box. Still shellshocked from going a goal behind, Allardyce's side found themselves two down just four minutes later when Chambers' looping header dropped into the corner of Jussi Jaaskelainen's net. And it was nearly 3-0 just after the restart when Jay Emmanuel-Thomas took advantage of West Ham's defenders backing off to fire an effort inches wide of the post.
With new signing Modibo Maiga, making his first appearance for West Ham on English soil looking lively, West Ham began to get back into the game. However the yw were unable to reduce the deficit before the break and went into half-time two behind. That's how it stayed until 17 minutes from the end of normal time when Matt Taylor scored from long-range to bring West Ham to within a goal of their hosts. However the game was won for Ipswich with just seven minutes remaining when Jason Scotland made it 3-1 from the edge of the box with a curlign effort that left sub 'keeper Stephen Henderson no chance.
The defeat was West Ham's fourth reversal of pre-season following defeats at Austria Wien, Oxford United an Dynamo Dresden. And although pre-season should never be used as a barometer of form for the ensuing league campaign, there may well be some concerns inside the camp tonight at the nature of the defeat - and West Ham's apparent defensive weaknesses.
West Ham Utd: Jaaskelainen (Henderson 79), Reid, Collins, Demel, Potts (O'Brien 46), O'Neil, Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te, Maiga (Maynard 59), Cole.
Subs not used: Moncur, Lletget, Fanimo.
Ipswich Town: Loach, Edwards (Ainsley 61), Chambers, Smith (Delaney 61), Cresswell, Carson, Hyam (Murray 79), Luongo (Kourouma 71), Emmanuel-Thomas (Lawrence 67), Martin (Stevenson 46), Chopra (Scotland 46).
Subs not used: Lee-Barrett, Whight.
Attendance: 7,682 (2,075 away fans)
Pre-Season 2012/13: First team Squad Results
August
Braga v West Ham Utd
Ipswich Town 3-1 West Ham Utd
July
Energie Cottbus 2-2 West Ham Utd
Dynamo Dresden 3-0 West Ham Utd
Rot-Weiß Erfurt 0-3 West Ham Utd
Colchester Utd 1-2 West Ham Utd
Oxford Utd 1-0 West Ham Utd
Southend Utd 0-3 West Ham Utd
Boreham Wood 1-1 West Ham Utd
Austria Wien 3-1 West Ham Utd
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Tractor Boys beat Hammers
Last updated: 4th August 2012
SSN
West Ham suffered a 3-1 defeat at Ipswich Town in their pre-season friendly at Portman Road on Saturday. West Ham, who before Saturday's match at Ipswich had already lost three pre-season friendlies, fell behind after 15 minutes when Michael Chopra netted from the spot. Summer signing from Nottingham Forest Luke Chambers put the hosts two goals up four minutes later with a header. Matt Taylor pulled one back for the visitors after 73 minutes with a long range effort, but Jason Scotland sealed a 3-1 win for the Suffolk side seven minutes from time.
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Hammers' Mohsni bid rejected
Southend snub bid for Frenchman
Last Updated: August 4, 2012 1:01pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands West Ham have had a bid rejected by Southend for Bilel Mohsni. Mohsni has been on trial at West Ham during pre-season as Hammers boss Sam Allardyce casts an eye over the 24-year-old. The defender, who can also play as a striker, has impressed at Roots Hall over the last couple of seasons. Mohsni is thought to have caught the eye in pre-season training and West Ham have tabled an offer in the region of £150,000 for the Frenchman. However, Southend have rejected West Ham's initial offer for Mohsni as they battle to keep hold of the versatile performer. Mohsni has just a year left on his current deal, after Southend took up the 12-month option they had on him at the end of last season.
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Saturday Talking Points
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
* Sam Allardyce is concerned about James Tomkins' match fitness if Stuart Pearce doesn't play him in Olympic matches.
* Crewe, Doncaster and MK Dons are said to want to take Freddie Piquionne on a season long loan. At £38k a week?
* The Salomon Rondon rumours gather pace.He's a Venezuelan striker with Malaga, who has scored 25 in 67 games.
* Similarly, West Ham are said to be scouting Senegal strike Moussa Konate.
* Freddie Sears scored twice for Colchester last night in a 2-2 draw with Derby.
* West Ham play Ipswich at Portman Road in a friendly. Ipswich manager Paul Jewell has told his time "It's time to get nasty". Nice.
* It looks certain that Sam Baldock is off to Bristol City for £500k less than we paid for him last summer. Madness.
* Joey O'Brien has been called up to the Irish national squad for their friendly against Serbia on 15 August.
In July this site had 67,713 absolute unique visitors, 226,157 visitors and 329,629 pageviews. Thanks to all of you who visit to regularly. The number of comments is increasing massively. We're nearly ready to reinstate nested comments. In other news, I'll be interviewing a star West Ham player for the site soon - most probably Carlton Cole. More on that in a few days time.I've also asked to do a feature interview with Karren Brady once the Olympic Stadium bid decision is made. And finally, in a few hours time I am off to the Olympic Stadium to watch the evening's athletics. I can't wait to see what it's like. I'll report back tomorrow. UPDATE: According to Sky Sports Southend have rejected a £150,000 bid for Bilel Mohsni, who has been on trial with the Hammers for the last few weeks. He can play in defence or as
a striker.
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Sag in the bag for Hammers
Published: Today at 01:25
The Sun
WEST HAM lead the race for Evian ace Yannick Sagbo, 24. The frontman said: "I had approaches from Fulham, Wolfsburg and Marseille. "If I must choose it is West Ham."
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KEVIN NOLAN: WE CAN BE TOP-SIX IF MY PAL ANDY CARROLL SIGNS FOR SAM ALLARDYCE
The Daily Star
5th August 2012 By Steve Morgan
WEST HAM skipper Kevin Nolan has told pal Andy Carroll: 'Sign up and turn us into a top-six club'. Nolan reckons the Liverpool striker could be the catalyst for the team to shock the Premier League's big guns. Nolan and manager Sam Allardyce feel that the winning mentality gained in their Championship Play-Off Final promotion will stay with them in the top flight. Outspoken Sam was delighted stars like Carlton Cole stayed to help get the the club back up to the top flight in one season – but admitted it was their fault they had dropped out of the Premier League. Big Sam also feels the way he was treated at Newcastle and Bolton has damaged his reputation as a manager. Nolan said: "I would be delighted if Andy would come and join us here. "I am not too sure whether Brendan Rodgers will let him leave but there is lots of speculation – there always is surrounding Andy. "If there is a chance, we would be in the reckoning for him because he is such a quality player."
Nolan – Sam's former leader at Bolton – reckons his wily boss may shock the league. "I think everyone who has worked with Sam can honestly say he gives you everything he has got and gives you every little bit of detail to make sure you do well. "He is not given the praise for what he has done at clubs he has been at, or complimented for what he has done."
And Big Sam feels that Nolan's year scrapping in the Championship alongside other players like Cole and Mark Noble will have made them all stronger characters.
He said: "Kevin always gets the dressing room pulling in the right direction. "He boosts team spirit, commitment and every year goals have been consistently been part of his game – that is his main asset." Allardyce reckons that his team has the right attitude on and off the pitch with mental strength being a key component of their return. "Losing only eight out of the 49 games and only one in 2012 is why I came to West Ham – to win football matches," he added. "We did the ultimate which was get back into the Premier League the first time around. "I turned it round under very difficult circumstances. "To do that in a ten-month period and win promotion the way we did in the play-offs – that feeling of winning the final at Wembley – was far greater than the feeling if you get automatic promotion."
Sam was delighted Cole and Nolan stayed on reduced wages. He said: "From the financial aspect it was a massive commitment by him and quite a few players like that. "We were very disappointed but at the end of the day they were responsible partly for the club getting relegated in the first place. "Then to accept that responsibility and want to fight to get the club back up is not seen very often today, so they should take credit for that."
Sam is keen to prove himself a top manager again following the sack at Newcastle and Blackburn. He feels it was executives, not performances, which cost him his jobs, and "damaged" his legacy. He said: "It is damaged because someone has sacked you whether you deserved it or not. So that is where I think it damages my reputation, even though it was new owners who sacked me twice, once at Newcastle after six months because I wasn't their man and once at Blackburn when Venky's came in – because again I was not their man. "They have the right to choose whoever they choose, no matter how good or bad you do. "When they don't want you, you've to accept that."
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NEWCASTLE BATTLE WITH WEST HAM TO SIGN SENEGAL SCORING SENSATION MOUSSA KONATE
The Daily STar
5th August 2012 By Clive Hetherington
NEWCASTLE are battling with West Ham in the race to sign Senegal scoring sensation Moussa Konate. Toon boss Alan Pardew is anxious to boost his firepower after failing with an initial bid to take Liverpool striker Andy Carroll back to Tyneside on loan. Pardew, who has seen frontmen Leon Best and Peter Lovenkrands leave this summer, knows the chance to link up with compatriots Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse would appeal to Konate. The Maccabi Tel Aviv star, 19, caught the eye of scouts with four Olympic group-stage goals for Senegal, including the late equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Team GB at Old Trafford. He also scored the goal that rescued a 1-1 draw against the United Arab Emirates. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce, who also wants England international Carroll, has already lodged a £1.5million offer for Konate. And Premier League champions Manchester City, along with Fulham, have been credited with an interest. Pardew is also demanding "more magic'' from his enigmatic star Hatem Ben Arfa. The controversial French playmaker, 25, produced flashes of genius as Newcastle qualified for the Europa League last season.
But Pardew wants greater consistency from Ben Arfa, who hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons this summer. He was warned about his future conduct by the French Football Federation after an alleged bust-up with former France coach Laurent Blanc at the European Championships. And Ben Arfa's father, Kamel, was reportedly involved in a public clash with his agent, Michel Ouazine, outside the disciplinary hearing. Pardew described Ben Arfa's goal in January's FA Cup Third-Round win over Blackburn on Tyneside as "technically the greatest I've ever seen''. He also scored a wonder goal at home to Bolton and Pardew said: "A lot of my players would tell you Hatem has talent they can only dream of. "He just has to bring it to the table. There were games last season where he did – but there were a lot of games where he didn't. "He has to get consistency in his game. It's about how many times he can bring that magic to the pitch. He needs to improve on that."
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West Ham suffer defeat at Ipswich
London24
Dave Evans, West Ham Correspondent
Saturday, August 4, 2012
5:18 PM
Results don't mean much at this stage of pre-season, but West Ham boss Sam Allardyce may well have been a little perturbed by the manner of this defeat at Portman Road this afternoon. While the Hammers were marching back into the Premier League last term, they did lose twice to Ipswich, including an embarrassing 5-1 loss here in January. It was more of the same in this match as the Tractor Boys dominated for long periods and thoroughly deserved their victory against an under-par Hammers side which included James Collins making his first appearance since his signing from Aston Villa this week. Hammers adopted a 4-4-2 formation with new boy Modibo Maiga playing up front alongside Carlton Cole, with Ricardo Vaz Te on the right and Matt Taylor on the left. But it did not seem to be an effective plan as Ipswich took full advantage of the extra room in the middle of the park to take control. It was certainly Ipswich who started the brighter and in the fourth minute they went close to taking the lead when Michael Chopra met a low cross from the right, only to shoot inches wide. On 15 minutes they did get in front. Just as West Ham had begun to take some semblance of control, Ipswich went up the other end where Gary O'Neil upended the tricky Lee Martin for an obvious penalty. Chopra stepped up and made no mistake from the spot, sending Jussi Jaaskelainen the wrong way. Four minutes later it was 2-0 as West Ham conceded a free kick on the right hand side. Martin stroked the ball into the box and Luke Chambers was there to head the ball back into the far corner.
It could have been three on 22 minutes when Jay-Emmanuel Thomas cut inside as West Ham failed to close him down, only for his scuffed shot to slip inches wide with Jaaskelainen struggling to reach it. Mali international striker Maiga attempted to haul the Hammers back into the game with an ambitious shot on 31 minutes, but his effort, though powerful, flew high and wide of Scott Loach's goal as the Hammers failed to make an impression in a very disappointing first half.
Manager Sam Allardyce opted to change the formation for the second half with Maiga switching to the left side in a 4-3-3 formation and it seemed to have the desired effect as West Ham got back into the game. Vaz Te forced a decent save from Loach on 57 minutes with a shot from the edge of the box, while Taylor began to cause problems with his deliveries from the left hand side. West Ham continued to press in the second half and they were rewarded on 73 minutes. Nicky Maynard played in Taylor on the edge of the box and he swung a left-foot shot which hit the post and flew into the net to make it 2-1. Taylor came close again 10 minutes later when he met Guy Demel's cross with a header that went across the goal and slipped inches wide. But on 83 minutes, Ipswich secured their deserved victory when Jason Scotland stormed forward before curling a shot from outside the box into the far corner. Maynard almost set-up Vaz Te for a consolation in injury time, only for Loach to save his shot, but it was already too late for the Hammers who have just one more friendly before they kick-off their Premier League campaign against Aston Villa at Upton Park on August 18.
West Ham: Jaaskelainen (Henderson 79), Demel, Potts (O'Brien h/t), Collins, Reid, O'Neil (Moncur 77), Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te, Maiga (Maynard 62), Cole (Fanimo 74). Sub not used: Lletget,
Attendance: 7,682
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Piquionne blasts 10-minute hat-trick as West Ham XI stun AFC Wimbledon
London Echo
by Tom Moore, at the Cherry Red Records Stadium
Saturday, August 4, 2012
4:50 PM
Pre-Season Friendly: AFC Wimbledon 2 West Ham United 4
West Ham striker Freddie Piquionne scored a 10 minute hat-trick to inspire a wonderful comeback against AFC Wimbledon. The Frenchman danced through the Dons defence for his first then scored his second from the spot. His third was the best of the lot as he fired an unstoppable long-range shot past Dons goalkeeper Steve Collis. The south-west Londoners had taken a two goal lead going into half-time with AFC Wimbledon made the better start and Hammers goalkeeper Jake Larkins had to be alert straight away, making two quick saves. The east Londoners started to gain a foothold in the game and Louis Harris had to be alert to stop Rob Hall's cross. Luke Moore gave the Dons the lead with a powerful shot that Larkins couldn't do anything about. The Hammers looked to come back into the game with Bilel Moshni forcing Collis into an excellent save. Freddie Piquionne then forced the Dons stopper into another good save. Brendan Kiernan then stung the palms of Larkins with a free kick that looked destined for the bottom corner. AFC Wimbledon made it 2-0 with 10 minutes of the first half remaining The two Moores combined and Luke was the goalscorer, lifting it over Larkins. Whatever Ian Hendon said at half time worked as came from two goals down to lead 3-2 within 10 minutes after the restart, with Piquionne dancing through the Dons defenders and firing home at the near post for their first. The Hammers were then awarded a 52nd minute penalty for holding in the box and Piquionne sent Collis the wrong way. Hall then should have given the Irons the lead when he went clean through but could only fire high and wide.
Piquionne then gave West Ham the lead, completing his hat-trick in less than 10 minutes, with a cracking finish from the edge of the area, leaving Collis no chance.
AFC Wimbledon looked to equalise but with the match entering the final 10 minutes, the Hammers had their fourth. Blair Turgottt tricked his way through the Dons defence and fired a low shot past Seb Brown. Piquionne was withdrawn with 10 minutes remaining and was replaced by Dylan Tombides. The final few minutes saw players from both sides go down with knocks and it was the Hammers that emerged victorious when the final whistle blew.
AFC Wimbledon: Collis (Brown 67), Osano (Fenlon 30), Cummings, Harris, Balkestein (Mitchel-King 45), MacDonald, Long, L. Moore (Midson 60), Strutton (Merrifield 60), Kiernan (Bor 89), S. Moore (Sweeney 90).
West Ham: Larkins, Spence, Homans, Powell, Mohsni, Wearen, Turgott, Vose (Miles 82), Puquionne (Tombides 82), McCallum (Makasi 89), Hall (Onariase 89).
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
The Hammers suffer a pre-season defeat by Paul Jewell's men at Portman Road
04.08.2012
Ipswich Town v West Ham United
Pre-season match
Portman Road
Saturday 4 August 2012
Kick-off: 3pm
Final score - Ipswich Town 3-1 West Ham United
92 mins - Loach stands firm to stop West Ham halving the deficit. Maynard streaks forward before releasing Vaz Te with a through ball, but the goalkeeper dives to his left to push the ball away. Corner. It comes to nothing and moments later the final whistle is blown. We'll have highlights and reaction from today's game on West Ham TV soon.
90 mins - Into the final minute and a Noble free-kick comes to nothing inside the box. It's going to be a defeat for Big Sam's men, but they have improved after the break. They will need to eradicate the individual mistakes when the Barclays Premier League season starts, though. We're going to have two added minutes.
88 mins - Noble's delivery is low and cleared at the near post. Ipswich break after a Fanimo mis-kick but thankfully Henderson is there to gather the cross when it comes over.
87 mins - West Ham have a corner now. Taylor drives it across but it's too high for Collins to direct his header goalwards. Collins does win a throw, though, and from it Vaz Te wins a free-kick. Noble takes and Carson heads behind for a corner.
85 mins - Collins gives the ball away and then is beaten by the pass to Carson. The No7 shoots and the ball takes a deflection as it flashes past the upright. Before the corner, Whight replaces Cresswell. The ball comes over and breaks to Kourouma, who leans back and shoots too high.
83 mins - GOAL! Moncur slides but fails to keep control of the ball. Instead, Scotland takes possession and runs towards the box before cutting onto his right foot and curling the shot past Noble and Henderson and into the far corner. Great strike.
82 mins - Taylor has the chance. Demel lifts a cross to the far post and Loach doesn't come. Taylor rises and heads back across the face of goal and behind. So close!
81 mins - Into the final ten minutes and both young substitutes have been involved. Can they help West Ham to secure a second two-goal comeback in the space of a week?
79 mins - West Ham replace Jaaskelainen with Henderson in goal, while Murray comes on for Hyam for the home side.
78 mins - It's 4-2 to the Development Squad now! Blair Turgott has scored. That is some scoreline for the youngsters against the AFC Wimbledon first team.
77 mins - That's O'Neil's last contribution as he is replaced by George Moncur, an England Under-19 midfielder. Moments later, Noble lifts a cross over and Collins heads well wide.
76 mins - West Ham have a decent chance to draw level. Vaz Te collects and runs at the Ipswich back four before squaring for O'Neil. Unfortunately, the midfielder does not quite connect and shoots straight at Loach. The away fans are making a bit more noise as their team tries to get back in it.
74 mins - Cole is replaced by Fanimo before the game restarts. The No23 is an England Under-18 international winger with a sweet left foot.
73 mins - GOAL! Almost out of nowhere West Ham are right back in it. Taylor has the ball 25 yards out and is given time and space to pick his spot. A swing of the trusty left boot and the ball bounces in off the base of the right-hand post! Pinpoint finish from the No14.
71 mins - Ipswich replace Luongo with Kourouma. The little Italian gets an ovation from the Ipswich fans. He did play well today. The crowd today is 7,682 with more than 2,000 of them from West Ham.
69 mins - Collins rakes the ball out 50 yards wide left for O'Brien, who heads on for Vaz Te. He has Cole and Maynard running into the box, but slices his left-foot cross behind the goal and it bounces into the stand.
67 mins - O'Neil runs forward but his pass finds Cole offside inside the penalty area. The break in play sees Emmanuel-Thomas replaced by Byron Lawrence.
66 mins - Amazing news from Kingsmeadow where the Development Squad are now 3-2 up! I am told Piquionne may have scored a hat-trick, but that is not confirmed.
64 mins - Scotland barrels forward through the midfield before laying the ball wide right for Carson. He cuts inside on to his left foot and shoots, but drags the effort wide of the near post. Jaaskelainen had it covered.
61 mins - Changes from both managers. Edwards and Smith are replaced by Ainsley and Delaney for Ipswich, while Maynard is on for Maiga for the Hammers.
59 mins - An update from the Development Squad where Luke Moore had put AFC Wimbledon 2-0 up before half-time. However, Frederic Piquionne has pulled a goal back.
56 mins - Maiga and Cole combine before Taylor crosses low, but Smith clears. West Ham come again and Taylor cushions the pass down to Vaz Te. He loses his man and shoots hard and low. Loach dives to his left and makes the save before plunging on to the ball before it can get too far away from him.
55 mins - Ipswich attack through substitutes Scotland and Stevenson before the latter shoots from 22 yards - too high.
53 mins - Maiga loses the ball to Hyam before winning it back and being felled by the Ipswich No6. There have been glimpses from the Mali man and he will get better as he spends more time getting to know his new team-mates.
52 mins - Demel initially does well before passing straight to Edwards. He comes forward before shooting from 25 yards, but it is too high.
48 mins - Ipswich are first to show again as Cresswell overlaps and slams a cross in low to the near post. Collins stretches out his right leg to concede the corner. Emmanuel-Thomas tries to dribble into the box but Maiga slows him down and the Hammers clear.
46 mins - The home side get the second half underway. West Ham look like they are now employing a 4-3-3 formation, with Maiga and Vaz Te either side of Cole.
Ipswich are making some changes - Jason Scotland and Ryan Stevenson are on for Chopra and Martin. O'Brien on for Potts for West Ham.
Judging by the rigorous warm-up he is undertaking at the moment, I think Joey O'Brien could be on after the break. He is already stripped down to his match kit.
46 mins - Half-time. West Ham will have to improve after the break if they are to avoid defeat here. Two set-plays led to two Ipswich goals and the hosts have been the better team. I know it's a cliche, but it's only pre-season!
45 mins - Another decent passing move from the home side ends with Martin making room for a shot on his left foot, but Collins is out quickly to charge it down. Ipswich have certainly moved the ball well through the midfield. They have been fluent at times.
44 mins - On the plus side, an Ipswich staff member has just brought a kettle and some mugs up the steps to the Press Box. A half-time cuppa will help!
41 mins - Vaz Te and Taylor have swapped wings. Cole has the ball in the midfield, turns and looks up and then lifts a pass through to Loach.
39 mins - The wonders of social media tell me that the Development Squad are trailing 1-0 at AFC Wimbledon through Luke Moore's goal. Emmanuel Thomas has another go here and again the shot is deflected wide. Cole heads the corner clear at the near post.
36 mins - Reid has a few words to say to Martin after a coming together near the byline. The referee has a chat with both players, but takes no further action. Reid was trying to hold off the Ipswich midfielder and took exception to the robust nature of Martin's challenge.
34 mins - A few moments of calm as both teams struggle to maintain possession. Just to remind you that the Development Squad are also in action this afternoon at AFC Wimbledon. We'll have a report from that fixture later today.
31 mins - Taylor wins the ball back inside the Ipswich half and it breaks to Maiga. He pushes the ball in front of him and then shoots from 25 yards, but it flies well over the top.
30 mins - Ipswich have a corner as Edwards' low shot takes a deflection off Taylor. Martin deilvers and Jaaskelainen makes the catch high above his head.
28 mins - Ipswich shout for another penalty but this time Potts gets his body in the way and shields the ball from Chopra. Good defending from the 18-year-old. West Ham then go up the other end and Loach's clearance is headed into the centre by Taylor, but Cole cannot benefit.
26 mins - This time Smith challenges Cole in the air and the foul is given. The initial free-kick is cleared to Noble, whose follow-up header is also hacked away. West Ham are having a spell of pressure, however.
24 mins - Some patient build-up from West Ham ends with Noble clipping a cross towards Cole. He flicks-on for Maiga, but the assistant referee flags for a foul by Cole on Smith.
23 mins - Hmmm... Emmanuel-Thomas jinks past Collins and has a sight of goal from 18 yards. He sidefoots low and the ball just dribbles past the right-hand post. That could have been 3-0 with a slightly better aim from the former Arsenal youngster.
21 mins - West Ham try to break down their right through Demel and Vaz Te, but Cresswell gets a toe in to prevent the Ivorian's pass sending the No12 away. West Ham do win a throw, but they can do nothing with it.
19 mins - GOAL! Not a great start. Martin curls the free-kick over to the far post and Chambers is unmarked. He cranes his neck and sends the header back past Jaaskelainen and into the corner of the net. West Ham will need to stop conceding set pieces in and around their box.
18 mins - Ipswich have another chance to put a ball into the box as Potts clips the heels of Martin. Free-kick three yards outside the penalty area.
17 mins - The Hammers try to respond and win a free-kick down their left. Taylor and Potts work a crossing chance, but again it's too close to Loach and the goalkeeper makes a smart catch low down.
15 mins - GOAL! Emmanuel-Thomas runs at Taylor before passing square to Martin inside the penalty area. O'Neil brings him down with a clumsy challenge and referee Pat Miller blows his whistle and points to the spot. Chopra strolls up and sends Jaaskelainen the wrong way. Ipswich lead.
14 mins - Vaz Te seeks out Taylor with a raking 40-yard pass. The No14 controls and then tries to find Cole in the middle, but his cross bounces too close to Loach, who collects. It's been an open game so far.
11 mins - Cole wins a flick-on to himself before finding Maiga. He gets past Edwards and crosses low, but Chambers clears for a throw. From it, Cole finds Potts, who wins a corner as his cross flicks off Edwards. It comes to nothing initially as Noble's cross is headed clear. Maiga keeps the ball alive and Taylor finds Potts in space. He crosses high towards Maiga, but Smith glances the ball away.
10 mins - Vaz Te shows no ill-effects as he pushes the ball into space behind Cresswell and races forward. Carson tracks his run and makes the sliding challenge to concede a throw. West Ham try to force an opening, but concede a free-kick for a foul instead...
9 mins - Vaz Te is felled inside the centre circle. He has the physio on for a while but is back on again after some treatment.
8 mins - Close again. Emmanuel-Thomas runs at Potts before clipping the pass back to the supporting Edwards. The Trinidad and Tobago man again crosses low and Chopra dummies. The ball hits Collins before the Welshman boots the ball clear.
7 mins - Ipswich come again and this time Collins' tackle is ill-timed. Free-kick. Emmanuel-Thomas fancies this one from just over 25 yards. He steps up and curls his shot a few yards over the top. West Ham have not settled yet.
6 mins - James Collins is back! Ginge wins a header but nods it straight to Luongo. The home fans encourage the Tottenham loanee to shoot. He does, but Collins makes a thunderous block to clear.
4 mins - Ipswich having the majority of possession so far and they work an opening well down their right. Full-back Edwards is a former winger and shows his quality by whipping in a low cross that Chopra meets at the near post. He shoots first-time and the ball flies wide. Decent chance.
2 mins - Maiga is up front with Cole. Vaz Te is playing wide right in a 4-4-2 formation. Taylor is on the left. The rest are set out as you would expect. Reid is playing on the left of the two centre-backs.
3.02pm - O'Neil and Vaz Te get the game underway. The ball goes back to Potts, whose clearance is helped back into the West Ham half by Chopra. Reid heads out for a throw. Low-key start!
3pm - There is a decent crowd inside Portman Road for today's game and they are making some noise as the team lineups are read out. I'm afraid the low stand roof in front of me means I can't see how many West Ham supporters are here!
2.58pm - Here they come. West Ham are in claret and blue shirts, sky blue shorts and claret socks and are captained this afternoon by Mark Noble. Noble is sporting lime green boots, while Gary O'Neil has yellow footwear on. Very flash, but perhaps not as flash as Matt Taylor and Ricardo Vaz Te's PINK boots!
2.55pm - OK, the sun is out after a recent cloudburst and the two teams should be with us soon. I'm looking forward to seeing Maiga in action this afternoon, and of course to seeing the Reid/Collins combination at the heart of the back four. Big Sam will want West Ham to put on a show today, with just a fortnight to go until the big kick-off.
2.50pm - OK, we have the Ipswich lineup and substitutes...
Ipswich Town: Loach, Edwards, Cresswell, Chambers, Smith, Hyam, Carson, Luongo, Emmanuel-Thomas, Martin, Chopra
Subs: Lee-Barrett, Murray, Ainsley, Delaney, Kourouma, Lawrence, Whight
2.15pm - Just to clarify, Kevin Nolan is missing today as he continues his treatment for a minor toe injury, while George McCartney has a slight back problem. Jack Collison is back in full training, but this game has come just too soon for him. James Tomkins and Mohamed Diame are both on Olympic Games duty.
1.55pm - OK, we have the West Ham team news. Modibo Maiga starts, as does James Collins, while there are places on the bench for George Moncur, Sebastian Lletget and Matthias Fanimo. Raphael Spiegel has travelled with the squad for experience, but Stephen Henderson is the substitute goalkeeper.
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Reid, Collins, Potts, O'Neil, Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te, Maiga, Cole
Subs: Henderson, O'Brien, Moncur, Lletget, Fanimo, Maynard
Good afternoon and welcome to Suffolk for today's pre-season match between npower Championship side Ipswich Town and West Ham United.
The Hammers have ventured up the A12 for their penultimate pre-season fixture ahead of the new Barclays Premier League season, which begins with the visit of Aston Villa to the Boleyn Ground on Saturday 18 August. Don't forget that tickets are selling fast for the season opener - to make sure of your seat, buy a Season Ticket or match ticket today!
Manager Sam Allardyce and his players will be determined to get one over the Tractor Boys after suffering home and away defeats by Paul Jewell's team last season - including a shock 5-1 reverse here at Portman Road in January.
Big Sam has a squad combining youth and experience at his disposal, with new signings Modibo Maiga and Raphael Spiegel hoping to make their maiden first-team appearances on UK soil. The manager has also included young professionals Dan Potts, George Moncur and Sebastian Lletget in his squad in the absence of the injured George McCartney and Kevin Nolan and Jack Collison, who has only recently returned to full training.
For the hosts, former West Ham Academy player Jimmy Bullard needs no introduction to Hammers fans, while Ipswich will also have new signings Scott Loach and Luke Chambers on duty.Chambers, you might remember, scored an own-goal for West Ham in their 4-1 win at Nottingham Forest last August!
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Difficult day for Demel
WHUFC.com
Guy Demel knows there is hard work to be done after a disappointing pre-season defeat at Ipswich Town
04.08.2012
Guy Demel admitted West Ham United did not perform well enough in Saturday's 3-1 pre-season defeat at Ipswich Town. Employing an experimental 4-4-2 formation, the Hammers started slowly at Portman Road and found themselves two goals down to the npower Championship side within the opening 20 minutes. The first was a Michael Chopra penalty, while the second saw an unmarked Luke Chambers head in Lee Martin's free-kick. West Ham did improve after half-time and Matt Taylor halved the deficit, but Ipswich added a late third when Jason Scotland took advantage of another mistake to fire into the far corner. Demel, who completed a full 90 minutes at right-back, conceded that the Hammers had not deserved anything from the game. However, he told West Ham TV that he is confident the squad will have ironed out any deficiencies come the big Barclays Premier League kick-off against Aston Villa on 18 August. "I think we took the game seriously but we didn't play well early in the game and we conceded two goals," said the Ivorian. "After that, it was difficult for us to come back because Ipswich played with confidence. It was hard for us to get the ball and to play our football. "There are a lot of things we can learn from this game. They were bad things for us, but even if it wasn't nice and we weren't happy with the result, it was better that it happened now because we can work hard over the next two weeks to prepare for the Premier League."
The players will be back on the training pitch at Chadwell Heath on Sunday morning before flying to Portugal early next week for their final pre-season fixture. West Ham take on UEFA Champions League qualifiers SC Braga in Portugal on Friday night and Demel believes the match will be vital in shaping the team's preparations for the season ahead. In short, the No20 said they could not afford to repeate the mistakes made against Ipswich against opposition as good as Braga. "I think this will be most important game of our pre-season because it is the last game. We have played some good and bad games in pre-season, but in this one there will be no excuse because it is the last one before we play Aston Villa in the Premier League. "We must be at 100 per cent physically and mentally. This game will give us more information about how well we are and where we will be at the start of the season."
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Dev Squad too strong for Dons
WHUFC.com
The development squad were impressive winners on Saturday against AFC Wimbledon
04.08.2012
The Development Squad completed a sensational comeback against AFC Wimbledon by coming from 2-0 down to win 4-2 on Saturday afternoon. Freddie Piquionne led the charge - scoring a nine minute hat-trick at the beginning of the second half after a frustrating opening period. Speaking after the game, development squad manager Ian Hendon praised his side for their response after a disappointing start. "We started a little slow and found ourselves two goals down, but after that we responded well and created a host of good opportunities. "We came out second half and took our chances, playing a lot better especially at the back so I'm really pleased with the turnaround."
Hendon stated last week that he wanted to see his side to show more creativity and they did just that with Rob Hall and Blair Turgott both impressing after a spell away with the first team in Germany last week. "I got a lot of the lads back this week who have been away in Germany like Blair and Rob, we also had Jordan Spence in the side today and players like that only add to the strength to my squad. "That showed today playing against a very good team in AFC Wimbledon and getting a few of the older lads back definitely helps," said Hendon. "Last week we had first and second year scholars, we were still quite young today but the lads did very well."
Turgott got the Hammers' final goal, rounding off an exceptionally hard working performance, by holding off left-back Warren Cummings before firing the ball past Steve Collins in the home side's goal. Another player who stood out for the Hammers was keeper Jake Larkin who made a string of impressive stops, much to the delight of his manager. "Jake did exceptionally well today, he made some very good saves in the first half when we were very much up against it. "His distribution up to the front men was also very good as was his kicking; I'm very pleased for him."
Hendon also praised first year scholar Courtney Homan who put in a solid defensive display. "Whilst we're talking about defence I want to mention Courtney who came in as a first year scholar and played extremely well." Freddie Piquionne put in a man of the match performance, and Hendon is hopeful the Frenchman can now kick on as the season unfolds. "Freddie has shown his quality today and I think he would be the first to admit that he hasn't done that enough in recent games, unluckily for Wimbledon they've caught him on a good day."
The development squad will participate in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League this season with a trip to Reading first on the agenda. Hendon is confident that his pre-season preparations will ensure the side are ready to hit the ground running. "Pre-season is all about being fit, ready and motivated for the start of the season and we showed signs today that everything is starting to come together. "I had around eight or nine of my players out on loan at once last year and that won't happen this year. "Some players will leave and they need to in order to gain valuable experience but they will also gain that here now we have fixtures of our own."
Next up for Hendon and his side is a trip to Northampton on Tuesday night before rounding off their pre-season schedule against Dagenham and Redbridge. The development squad will then kick off their league campaign against Reading on the 17 August, which is followed by a trip to Everton and round two of the Capital One Cup.
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Mohsni deal in the balance
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 4th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Southend United are still considering a bid from West Ham for central defender Bilel Mohsni. The Hammers submitted an offer - thought to be in the region of £150,000 - for the 25-year-old Frenchman earlier today and initial reports suggested that it had been rejected by the League Two club. But according to local press, those reports were premature with Southend still considering West Ham's offer for a player who has just twelve months left on his current contract and who has already signalled a desire to try his luck elsewhere. An unnamed spokesperson for the Shrimpers told the Echo today: "The offer is still being discussed by the football club," adding that "it hasn't been accepted or rejected at this stage."
Meanwhile the player himself added: "At this moment I don't know what is happening, but I think I should find out more over the weekend." The defender, who can also play in attack made his debut in claret and blue at Grays last month before featuring for West Ham at Colchester and then in United's recent tour of Germany.
Speaking last month about his future away from Southend, he said: "I am leaving the club. I don't know where I will sign but I want to play at a higher level."
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Oh no, Momo
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 4th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's new signing Momo Diame could miss the start of the Premier League season after limping off during Senegal's Olympic Games quarter-final defeat against Mexico. The Senegalese captain appeared to suffer a hamstring strain late on in the second half of the match, which the Mexicans eventually won 4-2 after extra time. Having gone in for a challenge close to the half way line, the 25-year-old immediately pulled up sharply clutching his thigh. And just a few minutes later Diame was replaced by Serigne Mbodji as he trudged forlornly down the Wembley tunnel. Diame, who signed for West Ham in June on a free transfer having decided to leave Wigan at the end of last season cpatained his country during all three of their group games at the competition, which saw the Senegalese accrue five points with two draws and a win. Diame's new team mate James Tomkins is in the Great Britain squad which faces Korea in the last Olympic Games quarter final fixture later this evening.
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Ipswich Town 3 West Ham Utd 1
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 4th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham suffered a second successive defeat at Portman Road in 2012 as Sam Allardyce's side were well-beaten by the Championship side. Back in January, West Ham suffered their heaviest defeat of the 2011/12 season when going down 5-1 to the Tractor Boys. And there was further disappointment for Allardyce and his players as they went down 3-1 to a lively Town side in Suffolk this afternoon. Whilst Kevin Nolan and George McCartney, both nursing minor injuries missed today's game - not to mention the absence of Olympians James Tomkins and Momo Diame - there was a welcome recall for James Collins, making his first appearance for the Hammers since returning to the club from Aston Villa.
However the central defender's homecoming was abruptly spoilt with just quarter-of-an-hour on the clock when Michael Chopra put the home side one-up from the penalty spot after Gary O'Neil was adjudged to have felled Lee Martin inside the penalty box. Still shellshocked from going a goal behind, Allardyce's side found themselves two down just four minutes later when Chambers' looping header dropped into the corner of Jussi Jaaskelainen's net. And it was nearly 3-0 just after the restart when Jay Emmanuel-Thomas took advantage of West Ham's defenders backing off to fire an effort inches wide of the post.
With new signing Modibo Maiga, making his first appearance for West Ham on English soil looking lively, West Ham began to get back into the game. However the yw were unable to reduce the deficit before the break and went into half-time two behind. That's how it stayed until 17 minutes from the end of normal time when Matt Taylor scored from long-range to bring West Ham to within a goal of their hosts. However the game was won for Ipswich with just seven minutes remaining when Jason Scotland made it 3-1 from the edge of the box with a curlign effort that left sub 'keeper Stephen Henderson no chance.
The defeat was West Ham's fourth reversal of pre-season following defeats at Austria Wien, Oxford United an Dynamo Dresden. And although pre-season should never be used as a barometer of form for the ensuing league campaign, there may well be some concerns inside the camp tonight at the nature of the defeat - and West Ham's apparent defensive weaknesses.
West Ham Utd: Jaaskelainen (Henderson 79), Reid, Collins, Demel, Potts (O'Brien 46), O'Neil, Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te, Maiga (Maynard 59), Cole.
Subs not used: Moncur, Lletget, Fanimo.
Ipswich Town: Loach, Edwards (Ainsley 61), Chambers, Smith (Delaney 61), Cresswell, Carson, Hyam (Murray 79), Luongo (Kourouma 71), Emmanuel-Thomas (Lawrence 67), Martin (Stevenson 46), Chopra (Scotland 46).
Subs not used: Lee-Barrett, Whight.
Attendance: 7,682 (2,075 away fans)
Pre-Season 2012/13: First team Squad Results
August
Braga v West Ham Utd
Ipswich Town 3-1 West Ham Utd
July
Energie Cottbus 2-2 West Ham Utd
Dynamo Dresden 3-0 West Ham Utd
Rot-Weiß Erfurt 0-3 West Ham Utd
Colchester Utd 1-2 West Ham Utd
Oxford Utd 1-0 West Ham Utd
Southend Utd 0-3 West Ham Utd
Boreham Wood 1-1 West Ham Utd
Austria Wien 3-1 West Ham Utd
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Tractor Boys beat Hammers
Last updated: 4th August 2012
SSN
West Ham suffered a 3-1 defeat at Ipswich Town in their pre-season friendly at Portman Road on Saturday. West Ham, who before Saturday's match at Ipswich had already lost three pre-season friendlies, fell behind after 15 minutes when Michael Chopra netted from the spot. Summer signing from Nottingham Forest Luke Chambers put the hosts two goals up four minutes later with a header. Matt Taylor pulled one back for the visitors after 73 minutes with a long range effort, but Jason Scotland sealed a 3-1 win for the Suffolk side seven minutes from time.
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Hammers' Mohsni bid rejected
Southend snub bid for Frenchman
Last Updated: August 4, 2012 1:01pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands West Ham have had a bid rejected by Southend for Bilel Mohsni. Mohsni has been on trial at West Ham during pre-season as Hammers boss Sam Allardyce casts an eye over the 24-year-old. The defender, who can also play as a striker, has impressed at Roots Hall over the last couple of seasons. Mohsni is thought to have caught the eye in pre-season training and West Ham have tabled an offer in the region of £150,000 for the Frenchman. However, Southend have rejected West Ham's initial offer for Mohsni as they battle to keep hold of the versatile performer. Mohsni has just a year left on his current deal, after Southend took up the 12-month option they had on him at the end of last season.
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Saturday Talking Points
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
* Sam Allardyce is concerned about James Tomkins' match fitness if Stuart Pearce doesn't play him in Olympic matches.
* Crewe, Doncaster and MK Dons are said to want to take Freddie Piquionne on a season long loan. At £38k a week?
* The Salomon Rondon rumours gather pace.He's a Venezuelan striker with Malaga, who has scored 25 in 67 games.
* Similarly, West Ham are said to be scouting Senegal strike Moussa Konate.
* Freddie Sears scored twice for Colchester last night in a 2-2 draw with Derby.
* West Ham play Ipswich at Portman Road in a friendly. Ipswich manager Paul Jewell has told his time "It's time to get nasty". Nice.
* It looks certain that Sam Baldock is off to Bristol City for £500k less than we paid for him last summer. Madness.
* Joey O'Brien has been called up to the Irish national squad for their friendly against Serbia on 15 August.
In July this site had 67,713 absolute unique visitors, 226,157 visitors and 329,629 pageviews. Thanks to all of you who visit to regularly. The number of comments is increasing massively. We're nearly ready to reinstate nested comments. In other news, I'll be interviewing a star West Ham player for the site soon - most probably Carlton Cole. More on that in a few days time.I've also asked to do a feature interview with Karren Brady once the Olympic Stadium bid decision is made. And finally, in a few hours time I am off to the Olympic Stadium to watch the evening's athletics. I can't wait to see what it's like. I'll report back tomorrow. UPDATE: According to Sky Sports Southend have rejected a £150,000 bid for Bilel Mohsni, who has been on trial with the Hammers for the last few weeks. He can play in defence or as
a striker.
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Sag in the bag for Hammers
Published: Today at 01:25
The Sun
WEST HAM lead the race for Evian ace Yannick Sagbo, 24. The frontman said: "I had approaches from Fulham, Wolfsburg and Marseille. "If I must choose it is West Ham."
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KEVIN NOLAN: WE CAN BE TOP-SIX IF MY PAL ANDY CARROLL SIGNS FOR SAM ALLARDYCE
The Daily Star
5th August 2012 By Steve Morgan
WEST HAM skipper Kevin Nolan has told pal Andy Carroll: 'Sign up and turn us into a top-six club'. Nolan reckons the Liverpool striker could be the catalyst for the team to shock the Premier League's big guns. Nolan and manager Sam Allardyce feel that the winning mentality gained in their Championship Play-Off Final promotion will stay with them in the top flight. Outspoken Sam was delighted stars like Carlton Cole stayed to help get the the club back up to the top flight in one season – but admitted it was their fault they had dropped out of the Premier League. Big Sam also feels the way he was treated at Newcastle and Bolton has damaged his reputation as a manager. Nolan said: "I would be delighted if Andy would come and join us here. "I am not too sure whether Brendan Rodgers will let him leave but there is lots of speculation – there always is surrounding Andy. "If there is a chance, we would be in the reckoning for him because he is such a quality player."
Nolan – Sam's former leader at Bolton – reckons his wily boss may shock the league. "I think everyone who has worked with Sam can honestly say he gives you everything he has got and gives you every little bit of detail to make sure you do well. "He is not given the praise for what he has done at clubs he has been at, or complimented for what he has done."
And Big Sam feels that Nolan's year scrapping in the Championship alongside other players like Cole and Mark Noble will have made them all stronger characters.
He said: "Kevin always gets the dressing room pulling in the right direction. "He boosts team spirit, commitment and every year goals have been consistently been part of his game – that is his main asset." Allardyce reckons that his team has the right attitude on and off the pitch with mental strength being a key component of their return. "Losing only eight out of the 49 games and only one in 2012 is why I came to West Ham – to win football matches," he added. "We did the ultimate which was get back into the Premier League the first time around. "I turned it round under very difficult circumstances. "To do that in a ten-month period and win promotion the way we did in the play-offs – that feeling of winning the final at Wembley – was far greater than the feeling if you get automatic promotion."
Sam was delighted Cole and Nolan stayed on reduced wages. He said: "From the financial aspect it was a massive commitment by him and quite a few players like that. "We were very disappointed but at the end of the day they were responsible partly for the club getting relegated in the first place. "Then to accept that responsibility and want to fight to get the club back up is not seen very often today, so they should take credit for that."
Sam is keen to prove himself a top manager again following the sack at Newcastle and Blackburn. He feels it was executives, not performances, which cost him his jobs, and "damaged" his legacy. He said: "It is damaged because someone has sacked you whether you deserved it or not. So that is where I think it damages my reputation, even though it was new owners who sacked me twice, once at Newcastle after six months because I wasn't their man and once at Blackburn when Venky's came in – because again I was not their man. "They have the right to choose whoever they choose, no matter how good or bad you do. "When they don't want you, you've to accept that."
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NEWCASTLE BATTLE WITH WEST HAM TO SIGN SENEGAL SCORING SENSATION MOUSSA KONATE
The Daily STar
5th August 2012 By Clive Hetherington
NEWCASTLE are battling with West Ham in the race to sign Senegal scoring sensation Moussa Konate. Toon boss Alan Pardew is anxious to boost his firepower after failing with an initial bid to take Liverpool striker Andy Carroll back to Tyneside on loan. Pardew, who has seen frontmen Leon Best and Peter Lovenkrands leave this summer, knows the chance to link up with compatriots Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse would appeal to Konate. The Maccabi Tel Aviv star, 19, caught the eye of scouts with four Olympic group-stage goals for Senegal, including the late equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Team GB at Old Trafford. He also scored the goal that rescued a 1-1 draw against the United Arab Emirates. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce, who also wants England international Carroll, has already lodged a £1.5million offer for Konate. And Premier League champions Manchester City, along with Fulham, have been credited with an interest. Pardew is also demanding "more magic'' from his enigmatic star Hatem Ben Arfa. The controversial French playmaker, 25, produced flashes of genius as Newcastle qualified for the Europa League last season.
But Pardew wants greater consistency from Ben Arfa, who hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons this summer. He was warned about his future conduct by the French Football Federation after an alleged bust-up with former France coach Laurent Blanc at the European Championships. And Ben Arfa's father, Kamel, was reportedly involved in a public clash with his agent, Michel Ouazine, outside the disciplinary hearing. Pardew described Ben Arfa's goal in January's FA Cup Third-Round win over Blackburn on Tyneside as "technically the greatest I've ever seen''. He also scored a wonder goal at home to Bolton and Pardew said: "A lot of my players would tell you Hatem has talent they can only dream of. "He just has to bring it to the table. There were games last season where he did – but there were a lot of games where he didn't. "He has to get consistency in his game. It's about how many times he can bring that magic to the pitch. He needs to improve on that."
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West Ham suffer defeat at Ipswich
London24
Dave Evans, West Ham Correspondent
Saturday, August 4, 2012
5:18 PM
Results don't mean much at this stage of pre-season, but West Ham boss Sam Allardyce may well have been a little perturbed by the manner of this defeat at Portman Road this afternoon. While the Hammers were marching back into the Premier League last term, they did lose twice to Ipswich, including an embarrassing 5-1 loss here in January. It was more of the same in this match as the Tractor Boys dominated for long periods and thoroughly deserved their victory against an under-par Hammers side which included James Collins making his first appearance since his signing from Aston Villa this week. Hammers adopted a 4-4-2 formation with new boy Modibo Maiga playing up front alongside Carlton Cole, with Ricardo Vaz Te on the right and Matt Taylor on the left. But it did not seem to be an effective plan as Ipswich took full advantage of the extra room in the middle of the park to take control. It was certainly Ipswich who started the brighter and in the fourth minute they went close to taking the lead when Michael Chopra met a low cross from the right, only to shoot inches wide. On 15 minutes they did get in front. Just as West Ham had begun to take some semblance of control, Ipswich went up the other end where Gary O'Neil upended the tricky Lee Martin for an obvious penalty. Chopra stepped up and made no mistake from the spot, sending Jussi Jaaskelainen the wrong way. Four minutes later it was 2-0 as West Ham conceded a free kick on the right hand side. Martin stroked the ball into the box and Luke Chambers was there to head the ball back into the far corner.
It could have been three on 22 minutes when Jay-Emmanuel Thomas cut inside as West Ham failed to close him down, only for his scuffed shot to slip inches wide with Jaaskelainen struggling to reach it. Mali international striker Maiga attempted to haul the Hammers back into the game with an ambitious shot on 31 minutes, but his effort, though powerful, flew high and wide of Scott Loach's goal as the Hammers failed to make an impression in a very disappointing first half.
Manager Sam Allardyce opted to change the formation for the second half with Maiga switching to the left side in a 4-3-3 formation and it seemed to have the desired effect as West Ham got back into the game. Vaz Te forced a decent save from Loach on 57 minutes with a shot from the edge of the box, while Taylor began to cause problems with his deliveries from the left hand side. West Ham continued to press in the second half and they were rewarded on 73 minutes. Nicky Maynard played in Taylor on the edge of the box and he swung a left-foot shot which hit the post and flew into the net to make it 2-1. Taylor came close again 10 minutes later when he met Guy Demel's cross with a header that went across the goal and slipped inches wide. But on 83 minutes, Ipswich secured their deserved victory when Jason Scotland stormed forward before curling a shot from outside the box into the far corner. Maynard almost set-up Vaz Te for a consolation in injury time, only for Loach to save his shot, but it was already too late for the Hammers who have just one more friendly before they kick-off their Premier League campaign against Aston Villa at Upton Park on August 18.
West Ham: Jaaskelainen (Henderson 79), Demel, Potts (O'Brien h/t), Collins, Reid, O'Neil (Moncur 77), Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te, Maiga (Maynard 62), Cole (Fanimo 74). Sub not used: Lletget,
Attendance: 7,682
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Piquionne blasts 10-minute hat-trick as West Ham XI stun AFC Wimbledon
London Echo
by Tom Moore, at the Cherry Red Records Stadium
Saturday, August 4, 2012
4:50 PM
Pre-Season Friendly: AFC Wimbledon 2 West Ham United 4
West Ham striker Freddie Piquionne scored a 10 minute hat-trick to inspire a wonderful comeback against AFC Wimbledon. The Frenchman danced through the Dons defence for his first then scored his second from the spot. His third was the best of the lot as he fired an unstoppable long-range shot past Dons goalkeeper Steve Collis. The south-west Londoners had taken a two goal lead going into half-time with AFC Wimbledon made the better start and Hammers goalkeeper Jake Larkins had to be alert straight away, making two quick saves. The east Londoners started to gain a foothold in the game and Louis Harris had to be alert to stop Rob Hall's cross. Luke Moore gave the Dons the lead with a powerful shot that Larkins couldn't do anything about. The Hammers looked to come back into the game with Bilel Moshni forcing Collis into an excellent save. Freddie Piquionne then forced the Dons stopper into another good save. Brendan Kiernan then stung the palms of Larkins with a free kick that looked destined for the bottom corner. AFC Wimbledon made it 2-0 with 10 minutes of the first half remaining The two Moores combined and Luke was the goalscorer, lifting it over Larkins. Whatever Ian Hendon said at half time worked as came from two goals down to lead 3-2 within 10 minutes after the restart, with Piquionne dancing through the Dons defenders and firing home at the near post for their first. The Hammers were then awarded a 52nd minute penalty for holding in the box and Piquionne sent Collis the wrong way. Hall then should have given the Irons the lead when he went clean through but could only fire high and wide.
Piquionne then gave West Ham the lead, completing his hat-trick in less than 10 minutes, with a cracking finish from the edge of the area, leaving Collis no chance.
AFC Wimbledon looked to equalise but with the match entering the final 10 minutes, the Hammers had their fourth. Blair Turgottt tricked his way through the Dons defence and fired a low shot past Seb Brown. Piquionne was withdrawn with 10 minutes remaining and was replaced by Dylan Tombides. The final few minutes saw players from both sides go down with knocks and it was the Hammers that emerged victorious when the final whistle blew.
AFC Wimbledon: Collis (Brown 67), Osano (Fenlon 30), Cummings, Harris, Balkestein (Mitchel-King 45), MacDonald, Long, L. Moore (Midson 60), Strutton (Merrifield 60), Kiernan (Bor 89), S. Moore (Sweeney 90).
West Ham: Larkins, Spence, Homans, Powell, Mohsni, Wearen, Turgott, Vose (Miles 82), Puquionne (Tombides 82), McCallum (Makasi 89), Hall (Onariase 89).
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, August 4
Daily WHUFC News - 4th August 2012
Big Sam targeting Ipswich victory
WHUFC.com
Big Sam is looking for a positive performance and result at Portman Road on
Saturday
03.08.2012
Sam Allardyce is looking forward to banishing some bad memories when West
Ham United travel to Ipswich Town on Saturday. The Tractor Boys were one of
only two teams to beat the Hammers home and away in the npower Championship
last season and Big Sam is eager to get one back over old adversary Paul
Jewell at Portman Road. The trip to Suffolk could see Modibo Maiga make his
first appearance on British soil, while James Collins has also been included
in the squad after rejoining the Hammers from Aston Villa. A third new name
in Big Sam's squad is teenage goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel, who will travel as
back-up to Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson for valuable first-team
experience. With just two more pre-season fixtures to play between now and
the big Barclays Premier League kick-off at home to Aston Villa - the other
being at SC Braga on Friday 10 August - the manager is getting closer to
knowing who his starting XI will be on Saturday 18 August. "It's not about
revenge but it's about us getting to our level now," he told West Ham TV.
"It's about making sure we give 100 per cent effort for the maximum amount
of time in the game and hopefully the lads will be able to do that for the
whole 90 minutes. "I'm expecting them to be able to reach as near to peak
fitness as they can possibly get at this stage and then it's a small top-up
before the start of the season. As I've said before, we've got to hit the
ground running and be at 100 per cent and that will give us an opportunity
to get off to a good start in the Barclays Premier League. "The level of
fitness will be all-important, as will the team shape and how the team plays
which will be very important as well. We need to make sure we win the game
and do the right things to win the game - in possession to try and score a
goal and out of possession to work very, very to stop the opposition from
scoring. "If we come away with a win and a clean sheet it means we're
starting to get things right and anything less than that will mean there is
plenty of work to be done."
One player who Big Sam is looking forward to seeing in a West Ham shirt is
Collins, who arrived from Aston Villa in midweek. "Every signing is a worry
for a manager, but there is little to worry about from James's career with
West Ham and Aston Villa and I think his experience of the Premier League is
very important.
"He is only 28 and is in the prime of his career and he was desperate to
come back. That, for me, was another sign and we want to see his solid,
committed defensive performances that the fans know from when he was here
before and him notch a few goals at the other end off set plays. "He's
exactly what you need in the Premier League - an aggressive, good central
defender - and I'm looking forward to working with him."
However, the manager will have to make do without Olympians James Tomkins
and Mohamed Diame as well as the injured Kevin Nolan (toe) and George
McCartney (sciatic nerve), while Jack Collison has recently returned to full
training. "Jack is still not with us as he's still recovering from the end
of last season," Big Sam confirmed. "Unfortunately it's taken a lot longer
than we thought it would and he's only just started training again. "Momo
and James are away on international duty at the Olympics. Momo is doing
fantastically well and I watched him play for Senegal against UAE at
Coventry on Wednesday and he looked a very good player. James is not playing
for Team GB very much - he's only started one game so far - which is a big
concern to me because he won't come back match-fit, which is what we
expected him to do. "It'll be interesting to see the other guys and how good
they are. Hopefully they'll do the good things and beat Ipswich."
*Tickets for Saturday's 3pm kick-off are still available and will also be on
sale on the day from the Cobbold Stand Ticket Office at Portman Road, priced
at £15 for Adults, £10 for Over-65s and Under-20s and £3 for Under-16s. For
full details, click here.
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Join the Supporter Advisory Board!
WHUFC.com
You can shape the future of West Ham United by setting the agenda for the
things that matter most
03.08.2012
If you want to help to shape the future of your Football Club, then there is
no better way than to join the West Ham United Supporter Advisory Board
(SAB). In line with the club's policy of listening to those who matter most,
the SAB was originally set-up last season to give fans the opportunity to
have their say on the Hammers.
Launched in May 2011, the SAB gives supporters a meangingful voice on the
following topics, plus much, much more:
· Retail - kit design and merchandise
· Marketing - branding and emails
· Media - online and publications
· Ticketing - season tickets and membership
· Matchday experience - everything related to the big game
SAB members will also have the opportunity to meet the people that make the
big decisions at the club, including Board members and first-team management
and players.
It is your West Ham United. You set the agenda for the things that matter
most to you. The existing SAB members will continue their important role
during the 2012/13 season, but the club is eager to open the opportunity up
to new members to ensure a fully representative cross-section of the
supporter base. The club would welcome those who have plenty to say. All
input is welcome, providing it is constructive and aimed at improving the
lot of all Hammers fans. Applications from all walks of life, whatever the
gender or age, are wanted, including international members. The only two
criteria is that you must support the club and must have a relationship with
the club, whether that be a Season Ticket holder or Academy member. Key
personnel from the club will be made available to address all areas covered
by the SAB. Those interested in joining the SAB must potentially be
available to attend quarterly meetings and be regularly contactable via
email/phone. The selection process will take into account each individual's
application and the overall balance of the Board. To get involved, fans must
be nominated by five others who are not related and also have a Season
Ticket or Academy membership.
This is a genuine opportunity for fans to influence the key decisions that
will shape the future of West Ham United.
Anyone interested should download an application form here and send it in by
Friday 17 August 2012 . Completed forms should be posted to Esha Chopra,
West Ham United, Boleyn Ground, Green Street, London, E13 9AZ.
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Dev Squad ready for Dons
WHUFC.com
Ian Hendon's Development Squad look to bounce back at to winning ways at AFC
Wimbledon
02.08.2012
Ian Hendon's Development Squad travel to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday as they
continue to build for the upcoming Barclays Under-21 Premier League season.
Last weekend saw Hendon's side defeated 1-0 at Welling United, but the coach
is eager and confident that his players will bounce back to winning ways
against their npower League Two opponents. Hendon will have a strong squad
at his disposal, with the likes of Jordan Spence, Rob Hall and Blair Turgott
all set to feature at Kingsmeadow. "It will be a good game against a good
team," said Hendon. "They did very well in League Two last year, especially
considering it was their first year in the division. "I saw a lot of them
last year as they had George (Moncur) on loan, they are a good, solid side
and it will be the toughest game we have faced."
Turgott and Hall both linked up with the first team during their pre-season
tour of Germany, and Hendon believes their promotion will provide the whole
team with an incentive to do likewise during the upcoming season. "It
provides a massive boost, not just to the players who travelled but also to
those who didn't as ultimately it's where they all want to be. "It gives
them a great experience in being around professionals and learning from them
in terms of how they train and play the game."
Hendon was without a recognised striker during last weekend's defeat at
Welling, but the likes of Hall, Paul McCallum and Frederic Piquionne should
provide more firepower this time around. "Last week was difficult as we were
without a recognised forward, but we're in better shape this weekend. It's a
great pitch at Wimbledon and hopefully we will be able to pick up a more
positive result than in previous weeks to match our overall performances."
In the light of the recent defeats at Dartford and Welling, Hendon is
demanding defensive improvements against the Dons, who could feature
one-time West Ham centre-back Callum McNaughton. "Last week we were too
casual defensively, but we've been working hard this week to make sure it
doesn't happen again. "We've looked over some video footage to see where we
need to improve, and have put the hours and effort in at the training ground
so I'm sure we will see an improvement."
The trip to AFC Wimbledon will be preceded by a testimonial match for Dons
first-team coach Simon Bassey at 12.45pm featuring a host of Wimbledon
legends. Tickets are priced at £12 for Adults, £8 for Concessions and £4 for
Under-16s and can purchased on the day at Kingsmeadow.
Following Saturday's fixture, the Development Squad will travel to
Northampton Town on Tuesday evening (7.45pm kick-off) before completing
their pre-season schedule at Dagenham and Redbridge on Saturday 11 August
(3pm kick-off). Hendon's squad open their Barclays Under-21 Premier League
campaign at home to Reading at Rush Green Stadium on Friday 17 August at
7pm.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mixed start for U18s
WHUFC.com
Nick Haycock's youth team won one and lost one on the opening day of a
tournament in Belgium
03.08.2012
West Ham United Under-18s recorded a victory and a defeat on the opening day
of the Yale Eurofoot Tournoi in Belgium. The three-day competition has
attracted a host of top clubs from across Europe and beyond, with Tottenham
Hotspur, Belgian giants Anderlecht and Club Brugge and Croatian side Hajduk
Split among those taking part. West Ham were drawn in Group A alongside AA
Gent, Cercle Brugge, Anderlecht, Hajduk Split and Danish club Nordsjaelland
at the tournament, which is taking place in Oostduinkerke. On Friday, Nick
Haycock's side began their challenge with a 2-0 win over Cercle Brugge, with
Elliot Lee and Jamie Harney scoring the goals. However, the Hammers' second
fixture saw them slip to defeat by an identical scoreline to Nordsjaelland.
"We played well in both matches and, on another day, could have recorded two
victories but overall I was very pleased with the way we started the
tournament," confirmed Haycock. "Against Cercle Brugge we fully deserved our
victory. Elliot scored the first goal by intercepting a pass and lashing a
shot into the bottom corner before Jamie volleyed in from a superb
in-swinging corner from Nathan Mavila. "Elliot and Leo Chambers were the
pick of our players, while there was also a good commanding performance from
our goalkeeper Sam Baxter. Sam didn't have much to do, but he kicked well
from the back and put in a good, solid display. "In our second game, we lost
2-0 against a Danish team who were a lot older and stronger than us - most
of their players were U19s whereas most of ours are U17s with a smattering
of U18s. They won the physical battle, but they certainly didn't outplay us.
"We played well enough to win but a couple of defensive mistakes cost us.
Again, Leo and Elliot were our standout players, while first-year scholar
Ben Marlow did well in the centre of the midfield."
Haycock said the trip would help him and the coaching staff assess the
youngsters' professionalism on and off the pitch. "It is a lovely set-up
here and the hotel is superb. The boys are in good spirits and they could
easily have come away with two wins from the opening day of the tournament.
We play Gent, Anderlecht and Hajduk Split on Saturday to see which knockout
section we go into on Sunday. "The good thing for me is that we get to see
how the boys prepare and how they recover from playing matches, as well as
the way they get over making mistakes that they have made. "We see how
professional they are 24-hours-a-day which is something that is vitally
important if they are going to take the next step towards first-team
football."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Robins close on Baldock
McInnes hopes to seal striker deal
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated:
August 3, 2012 11:32am
SSN
Sky Sports understands Bristol City are closing in on a deal for West Ham
striker Sam Baldock. City are thought to have agreed a fee with West Ham for
the 23-year-old and are hoping to persuade him to move to Ashton Gate. A
number of other clubs, including Charlton, are believed to be keeping tabs
on Baldock's situation, but Bristol City are in pole position to land the
former MK Dons hit-man. Baldock, who joined West Ham last summer, scored
five goals in his first nine games for the Hammers, but saw his first-team
opportunities dry up in the second half of the season. West Ham are prepared
to offload Baldock with Hammers boss Sam Allardyce having a wealth of
options in attack. Robins boss Derek McInnes has made Baldock his top target
as he looks to bring in a new striker ahead of the new season and is hopeful
of tying up a deal for the talented forward.
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Jussi Seems Set To Be The No 1 Goalkeeper
By Iain Dale
West Hma Till I Die
There's a six minute video interview with Sam Allardyce and Kevin Nolan on
the Premier League website. It seems clear from this that Jussi will be the
Number One goalkeeper. By all accounts neither he nor Stephen Henderson have
looked that impressive so far. Are we really to put a trust in a goalkeeper
who only played 18 times last season and couldn't maintain his place in a
relegated side? Don't get me wrong, Jussi has been a fantastic goalkeeper
for Bolton down the years, but his best days are way behind him. West Ham
(Allen McKnight excepted) have invariably had a fantastic goalkeeper between
the sticks. And we will need one next season. Are we really confident we
have one?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam in James Games pain
Published: Today at 00:15
The Sun
SAM ALLARDYCE is getting frustrated at James Tomkins' lack of Olympics
action. West Ham centre-back Tomkins started just one of Team GB's group
games, the 3-1 victory over UAE. He is set to be on the bench again for
today's quarter-final with South Korea. Hammers boss Allardyce said: "James
isn't playing very much which is a big concern as we expected him to come
back to us match-fit."
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My Club: Kriss Akabusi
The Sun
EXCLUSIVE By TOM BARCLAY
Published: Today at 00:15
IF Andy Carroll does not want to sign West Ham, then West Ham don't want
Andy Carroll. That's according to British athletics legend and diehard Irons
fans Kriss Akabusi, who feels the massive money Sam Allardyce is willing to
pay for the Geordie striker could be better spent elsewhere. SunSport caught
up with the former 400m runner for an exclusive chat on his beloved club,
from his thoughts on the move to Olympic Stadium to sneaking into Upton Park
as a youngster.
TB: Why are you a West Ham fan?
KA: When I was a little boy in 1969, I was on holiday and I went into this
caravan which was decorated in claret and blue. One of the pictures I saw on
the wall was of Clive Best, who was a black player who played for West Ham.
People might not be able to believe it today but back then there were very
few black players in the First Division. So straight away I changed my
allegiance from Liverpool – who I only picked because they were top of the
league – and became West Ham United from then on.
What are your memories from your first game?
I can't because what we used to be able to do is go to Upton Park, wait for
about 20 minutes after kick-off and then sneak in. I can't even remember my
first official game! I didn't start paying to go to games until I joined the
army.
Who was your all-time favourite player?
Billy Bonds. He rolled down his socks, literally, and bossed the midfield.
He was an aggressive, all-action player who didn't score many goals, but he
had that no-nonsense, East End style. He put in crunching tackles and was
our Norman Hunter, our Billy Bremner. He epitomised the East End of London –
'Roll your sleeves up, son, let's get on with it'.
Do you get down to Upton Park much these days?
I'm a season-ticket holder – I do pay for my ticket now!
Are you excited about the move to the Olympic Stadium?
It's definite progress. When West Ham first started, they played in the park
and it was all pies and mash, then walk back home in 1895. Then they moved
to what people call Upton Park – the Boleyn Ground – and there the progress
has continued.
But I was at the Olympic Stadium for the opening ceremony at London 2012 and
I saw how intimate that stadium can be. With retractable seating, reduced
numbers and a raising of the pitch, that is going to be a magnificent
stadium. In 10-15 years, no one will be talking about Upton Park. It will be
a privilege to call it home.
Will West Ham be able to fill it out though?
They will because we will become the West Ham of 1986. We'll be a top-tier
side. Slowly but surely we'll build towards it. We're a stone's throw away
from Canary Wharf – when we move to the Olympic Stadium we'll be the natural
club for all the banking money. It won't be overnight, but in that setting,
we'll grow, for sure.
The Hammers are back in the top flight now. What are your targets for this
season?
Staying up, of course. I don't want to be biting my nails on the last day of
the season wondering if we'll be going down or not. We need to aim for 40
points past February.
West Ham will have to get used to the long-ball game that Sam Allardyce
prefers, and if it keeps us up, I won't be complaining.
Would you be satisfied with that style of football in the long term?
Sam does say he can be flexible and that he has plans A, B and C. If we can
become like the Bolton of old that was a top 10 team for two or three years,
eventually we will get better players and a better system.
You have faith in Allardyce then?
I do. We'll get there in the end. One thing you do know is that in 10-15
years, Sam Allardyce will not be at West Ham – but I'm a Hammer for life.
Sam has a job to do and eventually someone else will come in to replace him.
Managers come and go but the team will always be there.
Alan Pardew had a wonderful season with Newcastle last year. Do you have any
regrets that he left West Ham?
Pardew plays a gutsy type of football. When he was with us, he got the
players stoked up and we had a terrific cup run. But he can get found out as
well. So it wouldn't surprise me if Newcastle struggle this season but then
it wouldn't surprise me if they finish in the top three!
One former Toon player that you are in the market for is Andy Carroll. What
are your thoughts on the Liverpool striker?
If he doesn't want to come to us, I don't want him either. He's not good
enough to worry about. I can understand Carroll in Sam's team – he would be
the big bustling forward that provides the knock-downs for the likes of Sam
Baldock, Ricardo Vaz Te and Kevin Nolan. But I can think of a lot of better
players for £80,000 a week.
I'm worried about paying someone that kind of money who doesn't want to be
there. It could unsettle the side with people like Mark Noble and James
Tomkins, who are great workhorses, thinking, 'How can this kid be on twice
as much as I am?'
Where would you like to add to the squad this summer?
What West Ham really miss is the guy who scores 20 goals a year. Carlton
Cole has lovely feet but you need someone who is going to score a goal every
other game.
If it were me, I would go and get Kenwyne Jones for a couple of million and
pay him £30,000 a week to play in the Kevin Davies role. Then you spend
£50,000 a week on someone who will bag you 15-20 goals – someone like
Jermain Defoe. Love him or loathe him, that boy is greedy and will score
goals. For the money you're paying for Carroll, you could get Jones and
Defoe. The other strikers would chip in and it would be, 'Well done West
Ham, you're safe by February'.
Did you ever fancy yourself as a footballer?
What school boy doesn't?
Which modern-day player was your style most like?
I wanted to be a striker when I was younger but really my style suited a
full-back, so someone like Ashley Cole.
If I were advising the young Akabusi, I would have told him to forget about
playing centre-forward and focus on full-back. I had a great engine, could
use both feet, cross a ball and wasn't scared of a tackle.
If you were the West Ham chairman, what would you do?
I would bring in Jones and Defoe, then work really hard at getting Joe Cole
back. I would say to him, 'You're not a striker, son, you're my midfield
wizard – you're going to play central midfield and you're going to create
the ammunition'.
I would have an upfront, diplomatic conversation with Allardyce and tell him
that I wasn't sure he was the man for us in the long term, but he is the man
for now. I would tell him that he will be paid well to make West Ham a top
third side, like an Everton. Eventually, I might look elsewhere to get where
I want to go, unless he could prove that he deserves to stay.
I would have an honest conversation with the fans and tell them I'm in it
for the legacy, not the money, so get behind me.
One thing I wouldn't do, which our chairmen have a habit of doing, is
interfere with the manager. I would not come down and talk to the players
and would not make ridiculous statements to the Press on what we're going to
achieve. You have to let people do their jobs.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
TEAM NEWS: West Ham expected to parade new signings at both ends of Portman
Road against Ipswich Town
The GreenUn
By Dave Gooderham
Friday, August 3, 2012
3:41 PM
Ipswich v West Ham: Big-money signings Modibo Maiga and James Collins are
expected to make their West Ham debuts on home soil when the Premier League
newcomers meet Ipswich Town in the Blues' showcase summer friendly. While an
ambitious loan move for England striker Andy Carroll has currently stalled,
Mali international Maiga, a £4.7 million signing from Sochaux, is expected
to lead the line. At the back for the Hammers, Collins could be in the heart
of the defence just days after completing his return to Upton Park on a £2.5
million move from Aston Villa. Fellow new signing Jussi Jaaskelainen, a free
transfer from Bolton Wanderers in place of Rob Green, and Stephen Henderson
wiil vie for the goalkeeper's jersey.
West Ham, who beat Colchester United 2-1 at the end of last month, could
start with a 4-3-3 formation with Nicky Maynard impressing lately in an
unfamiliar wide role. One striker who might miss out on the trip is Sam
Baldock with rumours abound that the Ipswich target is close to agreeing a
£1.5 million switch to divisional rivals Bristol City. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce will have to make do without Olympic duo James Tomkins and Mohamed
Diame as well as the injured Kevin Nolan (toe) and George McCartney (sciatic
nerve), while Jack Collison has recently returned to full training.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Big Sam is looking for a positive performance and result at Portman Road on
Saturday
03.08.2012
Sam Allardyce is looking forward to banishing some bad memories when West
Ham United travel to Ipswich Town on Saturday. The Tractor Boys were one of
only two teams to beat the Hammers home and away in the npower Championship
last season and Big Sam is eager to get one back over old adversary Paul
Jewell at Portman Road. The trip to Suffolk could see Modibo Maiga make his
first appearance on British soil, while James Collins has also been included
in the squad after rejoining the Hammers from Aston Villa. A third new name
in Big Sam's squad is teenage goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel, who will travel as
back-up to Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson for valuable first-team
experience. With just two more pre-season fixtures to play between now and
the big Barclays Premier League kick-off at home to Aston Villa - the other
being at SC Braga on Friday 10 August - the manager is getting closer to
knowing who his starting XI will be on Saturday 18 August. "It's not about
revenge but it's about us getting to our level now," he told West Ham TV.
"It's about making sure we give 100 per cent effort for the maximum amount
of time in the game and hopefully the lads will be able to do that for the
whole 90 minutes. "I'm expecting them to be able to reach as near to peak
fitness as they can possibly get at this stage and then it's a small top-up
before the start of the season. As I've said before, we've got to hit the
ground running and be at 100 per cent and that will give us an opportunity
to get off to a good start in the Barclays Premier League. "The level of
fitness will be all-important, as will the team shape and how the team plays
which will be very important as well. We need to make sure we win the game
and do the right things to win the game - in possession to try and score a
goal and out of possession to work very, very to stop the opposition from
scoring. "If we come away with a win and a clean sheet it means we're
starting to get things right and anything less than that will mean there is
plenty of work to be done."
One player who Big Sam is looking forward to seeing in a West Ham shirt is
Collins, who arrived from Aston Villa in midweek. "Every signing is a worry
for a manager, but there is little to worry about from James's career with
West Ham and Aston Villa and I think his experience of the Premier League is
very important.
"He is only 28 and is in the prime of his career and he was desperate to
come back. That, for me, was another sign and we want to see his solid,
committed defensive performances that the fans know from when he was here
before and him notch a few goals at the other end off set plays. "He's
exactly what you need in the Premier League - an aggressive, good central
defender - and I'm looking forward to working with him."
However, the manager will have to make do without Olympians James Tomkins
and Mohamed Diame as well as the injured Kevin Nolan (toe) and George
McCartney (sciatic nerve), while Jack Collison has recently returned to full
training. "Jack is still not with us as he's still recovering from the end
of last season," Big Sam confirmed. "Unfortunately it's taken a lot longer
than we thought it would and he's only just started training again. "Momo
and James are away on international duty at the Olympics. Momo is doing
fantastically well and I watched him play for Senegal against UAE at
Coventry on Wednesday and he looked a very good player. James is not playing
for Team GB very much - he's only started one game so far - which is a big
concern to me because he won't come back match-fit, which is what we
expected him to do. "It'll be interesting to see the other guys and how good
they are. Hopefully they'll do the good things and beat Ipswich."
*Tickets for Saturday's 3pm kick-off are still available and will also be on
sale on the day from the Cobbold Stand Ticket Office at Portman Road, priced
at £15 for Adults, £10 for Over-65s and Under-20s and £3 for Under-16s. For
full details, click here.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Join the Supporter Advisory Board!
WHUFC.com
You can shape the future of West Ham United by setting the agenda for the
things that matter most
03.08.2012
If you want to help to shape the future of your Football Club, then there is
no better way than to join the West Ham United Supporter Advisory Board
(SAB). In line with the club's policy of listening to those who matter most,
the SAB was originally set-up last season to give fans the opportunity to
have their say on the Hammers.
Launched in May 2011, the SAB gives supporters a meangingful voice on the
following topics, plus much, much more:
· Retail - kit design and merchandise
· Marketing - branding and emails
· Media - online and publications
· Ticketing - season tickets and membership
· Matchday experience - everything related to the big game
SAB members will also have the opportunity to meet the people that make the
big decisions at the club, including Board members and first-team management
and players.
It is your West Ham United. You set the agenda for the things that matter
most to you. The existing SAB members will continue their important role
during the 2012/13 season, but the club is eager to open the opportunity up
to new members to ensure a fully representative cross-section of the
supporter base. The club would welcome those who have plenty to say. All
input is welcome, providing it is constructive and aimed at improving the
lot of all Hammers fans. Applications from all walks of life, whatever the
gender or age, are wanted, including international members. The only two
criteria is that you must support the club and must have a relationship with
the club, whether that be a Season Ticket holder or Academy member. Key
personnel from the club will be made available to address all areas covered
by the SAB. Those interested in joining the SAB must potentially be
available to attend quarterly meetings and be regularly contactable via
email/phone. The selection process will take into account each individual's
application and the overall balance of the Board. To get involved, fans must
be nominated by five others who are not related and also have a Season
Ticket or Academy membership.
This is a genuine opportunity for fans to influence the key decisions that
will shape the future of West Ham United.
Anyone interested should download an application form here and send it in by
Friday 17 August 2012 . Completed forms should be posted to Esha Chopra,
West Ham United, Boleyn Ground, Green Street, London, E13 9AZ.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dev Squad ready for Dons
WHUFC.com
Ian Hendon's Development Squad look to bounce back at to winning ways at AFC
Wimbledon
02.08.2012
Ian Hendon's Development Squad travel to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday as they
continue to build for the upcoming Barclays Under-21 Premier League season.
Last weekend saw Hendon's side defeated 1-0 at Welling United, but the coach
is eager and confident that his players will bounce back to winning ways
against their npower League Two opponents. Hendon will have a strong squad
at his disposal, with the likes of Jordan Spence, Rob Hall and Blair Turgott
all set to feature at Kingsmeadow. "It will be a good game against a good
team," said Hendon. "They did very well in League Two last year, especially
considering it was their first year in the division. "I saw a lot of them
last year as they had George (Moncur) on loan, they are a good, solid side
and it will be the toughest game we have faced."
Turgott and Hall both linked up with the first team during their pre-season
tour of Germany, and Hendon believes their promotion will provide the whole
team with an incentive to do likewise during the upcoming season. "It
provides a massive boost, not just to the players who travelled but also to
those who didn't as ultimately it's where they all want to be. "It gives
them a great experience in being around professionals and learning from them
in terms of how they train and play the game."
Hendon was without a recognised striker during last weekend's defeat at
Welling, but the likes of Hall, Paul McCallum and Frederic Piquionne should
provide more firepower this time around. "Last week was difficult as we were
without a recognised forward, but we're in better shape this weekend. It's a
great pitch at Wimbledon and hopefully we will be able to pick up a more
positive result than in previous weeks to match our overall performances."
In the light of the recent defeats at Dartford and Welling, Hendon is
demanding defensive improvements against the Dons, who could feature
one-time West Ham centre-back Callum McNaughton. "Last week we were too
casual defensively, but we've been working hard this week to make sure it
doesn't happen again. "We've looked over some video footage to see where we
need to improve, and have put the hours and effort in at the training ground
so I'm sure we will see an improvement."
The trip to AFC Wimbledon will be preceded by a testimonial match for Dons
first-team coach Simon Bassey at 12.45pm featuring a host of Wimbledon
legends. Tickets are priced at £12 for Adults, £8 for Concessions and £4 for
Under-16s and can purchased on the day at Kingsmeadow.
Following Saturday's fixture, the Development Squad will travel to
Northampton Town on Tuesday evening (7.45pm kick-off) before completing
their pre-season schedule at Dagenham and Redbridge on Saturday 11 August
(3pm kick-off). Hendon's squad open their Barclays Under-21 Premier League
campaign at home to Reading at Rush Green Stadium on Friday 17 August at
7pm.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mixed start for U18s
WHUFC.com
Nick Haycock's youth team won one and lost one on the opening day of a
tournament in Belgium
03.08.2012
West Ham United Under-18s recorded a victory and a defeat on the opening day
of the Yale Eurofoot Tournoi in Belgium. The three-day competition has
attracted a host of top clubs from across Europe and beyond, with Tottenham
Hotspur, Belgian giants Anderlecht and Club Brugge and Croatian side Hajduk
Split among those taking part. West Ham were drawn in Group A alongside AA
Gent, Cercle Brugge, Anderlecht, Hajduk Split and Danish club Nordsjaelland
at the tournament, which is taking place in Oostduinkerke. On Friday, Nick
Haycock's side began their challenge with a 2-0 win over Cercle Brugge, with
Elliot Lee and Jamie Harney scoring the goals. However, the Hammers' second
fixture saw them slip to defeat by an identical scoreline to Nordsjaelland.
"We played well in both matches and, on another day, could have recorded two
victories but overall I was very pleased with the way we started the
tournament," confirmed Haycock. "Against Cercle Brugge we fully deserved our
victory. Elliot scored the first goal by intercepting a pass and lashing a
shot into the bottom corner before Jamie volleyed in from a superb
in-swinging corner from Nathan Mavila. "Elliot and Leo Chambers were the
pick of our players, while there was also a good commanding performance from
our goalkeeper Sam Baxter. Sam didn't have much to do, but he kicked well
from the back and put in a good, solid display. "In our second game, we lost
2-0 against a Danish team who were a lot older and stronger than us - most
of their players were U19s whereas most of ours are U17s with a smattering
of U18s. They won the physical battle, but they certainly didn't outplay us.
"We played well enough to win but a couple of defensive mistakes cost us.
Again, Leo and Elliot were our standout players, while first-year scholar
Ben Marlow did well in the centre of the midfield."
Haycock said the trip would help him and the coaching staff assess the
youngsters' professionalism on and off the pitch. "It is a lovely set-up
here and the hotel is superb. The boys are in good spirits and they could
easily have come away with two wins from the opening day of the tournament.
We play Gent, Anderlecht and Hajduk Split on Saturday to see which knockout
section we go into on Sunday. "The good thing for me is that we get to see
how the boys prepare and how they recover from playing matches, as well as
the way they get over making mistakes that they have made. "We see how
professional they are 24-hours-a-day which is something that is vitally
important if they are going to take the next step towards first-team
football."
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Robins close on Baldock
McInnes hopes to seal striker deal
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated:
August 3, 2012 11:32am
SSN
Sky Sports understands Bristol City are closing in on a deal for West Ham
striker Sam Baldock. City are thought to have agreed a fee with West Ham for
the 23-year-old and are hoping to persuade him to move to Ashton Gate. A
number of other clubs, including Charlton, are believed to be keeping tabs
on Baldock's situation, but Bristol City are in pole position to land the
former MK Dons hit-man. Baldock, who joined West Ham last summer, scored
five goals in his first nine games for the Hammers, but saw his first-team
opportunities dry up in the second half of the season. West Ham are prepared
to offload Baldock with Hammers boss Sam Allardyce having a wealth of
options in attack. Robins boss Derek McInnes has made Baldock his top target
as he looks to bring in a new striker ahead of the new season and is hopeful
of tying up a deal for the talented forward.
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Jussi Seems Set To Be The No 1 Goalkeeper
By Iain Dale
West Hma Till I Die
There's a six minute video interview with Sam Allardyce and Kevin Nolan on
the Premier League website. It seems clear from this that Jussi will be the
Number One goalkeeper. By all accounts neither he nor Stephen Henderson have
looked that impressive so far. Are we really to put a trust in a goalkeeper
who only played 18 times last season and couldn't maintain his place in a
relegated side? Don't get me wrong, Jussi has been a fantastic goalkeeper
for Bolton down the years, but his best days are way behind him. West Ham
(Allen McKnight excepted) have invariably had a fantastic goalkeeper between
the sticks. And we will need one next season. Are we really confident we
have one?
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Big Sam in James Games pain
Published: Today at 00:15
The Sun
SAM ALLARDYCE is getting frustrated at James Tomkins' lack of Olympics
action. West Ham centre-back Tomkins started just one of Team GB's group
games, the 3-1 victory over UAE. He is set to be on the bench again for
today's quarter-final with South Korea. Hammers boss Allardyce said: "James
isn't playing very much which is a big concern as we expected him to come
back to us match-fit."
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My Club: Kriss Akabusi
The Sun
EXCLUSIVE By TOM BARCLAY
Published: Today at 00:15
IF Andy Carroll does not want to sign West Ham, then West Ham don't want
Andy Carroll. That's according to British athletics legend and diehard Irons
fans Kriss Akabusi, who feels the massive money Sam Allardyce is willing to
pay for the Geordie striker could be better spent elsewhere. SunSport caught
up with the former 400m runner for an exclusive chat on his beloved club,
from his thoughts on the move to Olympic Stadium to sneaking into Upton Park
as a youngster.
TB: Why are you a West Ham fan?
KA: When I was a little boy in 1969, I was on holiday and I went into this
caravan which was decorated in claret and blue. One of the pictures I saw on
the wall was of Clive Best, who was a black player who played for West Ham.
People might not be able to believe it today but back then there were very
few black players in the First Division. So straight away I changed my
allegiance from Liverpool – who I only picked because they were top of the
league – and became West Ham United from then on.
What are your memories from your first game?
I can't because what we used to be able to do is go to Upton Park, wait for
about 20 minutes after kick-off and then sneak in. I can't even remember my
first official game! I didn't start paying to go to games until I joined the
army.
Who was your all-time favourite player?
Billy Bonds. He rolled down his socks, literally, and bossed the midfield.
He was an aggressive, all-action player who didn't score many goals, but he
had that no-nonsense, East End style. He put in crunching tackles and was
our Norman Hunter, our Billy Bremner. He epitomised the East End of London –
'Roll your sleeves up, son, let's get on with it'.
Do you get down to Upton Park much these days?
I'm a season-ticket holder – I do pay for my ticket now!
Are you excited about the move to the Olympic Stadium?
It's definite progress. When West Ham first started, they played in the park
and it was all pies and mash, then walk back home in 1895. Then they moved
to what people call Upton Park – the Boleyn Ground – and there the progress
has continued.
But I was at the Olympic Stadium for the opening ceremony at London 2012 and
I saw how intimate that stadium can be. With retractable seating, reduced
numbers and a raising of the pitch, that is going to be a magnificent
stadium. In 10-15 years, no one will be talking about Upton Park. It will be
a privilege to call it home.
Will West Ham be able to fill it out though?
They will because we will become the West Ham of 1986. We'll be a top-tier
side. Slowly but surely we'll build towards it. We're a stone's throw away
from Canary Wharf – when we move to the Olympic Stadium we'll be the natural
club for all the banking money. It won't be overnight, but in that setting,
we'll grow, for sure.
The Hammers are back in the top flight now. What are your targets for this
season?
Staying up, of course. I don't want to be biting my nails on the last day of
the season wondering if we'll be going down or not. We need to aim for 40
points past February.
West Ham will have to get used to the long-ball game that Sam Allardyce
prefers, and if it keeps us up, I won't be complaining.
Would you be satisfied with that style of football in the long term?
Sam does say he can be flexible and that he has plans A, B and C. If we can
become like the Bolton of old that was a top 10 team for two or three years,
eventually we will get better players and a better system.
You have faith in Allardyce then?
I do. We'll get there in the end. One thing you do know is that in 10-15
years, Sam Allardyce will not be at West Ham – but I'm a Hammer for life.
Sam has a job to do and eventually someone else will come in to replace him.
Managers come and go but the team will always be there.
Alan Pardew had a wonderful season with Newcastle last year. Do you have any
regrets that he left West Ham?
Pardew plays a gutsy type of football. When he was with us, he got the
players stoked up and we had a terrific cup run. But he can get found out as
well. So it wouldn't surprise me if Newcastle struggle this season but then
it wouldn't surprise me if they finish in the top three!
One former Toon player that you are in the market for is Andy Carroll. What
are your thoughts on the Liverpool striker?
If he doesn't want to come to us, I don't want him either. He's not good
enough to worry about. I can understand Carroll in Sam's team – he would be
the big bustling forward that provides the knock-downs for the likes of Sam
Baldock, Ricardo Vaz Te and Kevin Nolan. But I can think of a lot of better
players for £80,000 a week.
I'm worried about paying someone that kind of money who doesn't want to be
there. It could unsettle the side with people like Mark Noble and James
Tomkins, who are great workhorses, thinking, 'How can this kid be on twice
as much as I am?'
Where would you like to add to the squad this summer?
What West Ham really miss is the guy who scores 20 goals a year. Carlton
Cole has lovely feet but you need someone who is going to score a goal every
other game.
If it were me, I would go and get Kenwyne Jones for a couple of million and
pay him £30,000 a week to play in the Kevin Davies role. Then you spend
£50,000 a week on someone who will bag you 15-20 goals – someone like
Jermain Defoe. Love him or loathe him, that boy is greedy and will score
goals. For the money you're paying for Carroll, you could get Jones and
Defoe. The other strikers would chip in and it would be, 'Well done West
Ham, you're safe by February'.
Did you ever fancy yourself as a footballer?
What school boy doesn't?
Which modern-day player was your style most like?
I wanted to be a striker when I was younger but really my style suited a
full-back, so someone like Ashley Cole.
If I were advising the young Akabusi, I would have told him to forget about
playing centre-forward and focus on full-back. I had a great engine, could
use both feet, cross a ball and wasn't scared of a tackle.
If you were the West Ham chairman, what would you do?
I would bring in Jones and Defoe, then work really hard at getting Joe Cole
back. I would say to him, 'You're not a striker, son, you're my midfield
wizard – you're going to play central midfield and you're going to create
the ammunition'.
I would have an upfront, diplomatic conversation with Allardyce and tell him
that I wasn't sure he was the man for us in the long term, but he is the man
for now. I would tell him that he will be paid well to make West Ham a top
third side, like an Everton. Eventually, I might look elsewhere to get where
I want to go, unless he could prove that he deserves to stay.
I would have an honest conversation with the fans and tell them I'm in it
for the legacy, not the money, so get behind me.
One thing I wouldn't do, which our chairmen have a habit of doing, is
interfere with the manager. I would not come down and talk to the players
and would not make ridiculous statements to the Press on what we're going to
achieve. You have to let people do their jobs.
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TEAM NEWS: West Ham expected to parade new signings at both ends of Portman
Road against Ipswich Town
The GreenUn
By Dave Gooderham
Friday, August 3, 2012
3:41 PM
Ipswich v West Ham: Big-money signings Modibo Maiga and James Collins are
expected to make their West Ham debuts on home soil when the Premier League
newcomers meet Ipswich Town in the Blues' showcase summer friendly. While an
ambitious loan move for England striker Andy Carroll has currently stalled,
Mali international Maiga, a £4.7 million signing from Sochaux, is expected
to lead the line. At the back for the Hammers, Collins could be in the heart
of the defence just days after completing his return to Upton Park on a £2.5
million move from Aston Villa. Fellow new signing Jussi Jaaskelainen, a free
transfer from Bolton Wanderers in place of Rob Green, and Stephen Henderson
wiil vie for the goalkeeper's jersey.
West Ham, who beat Colchester United 2-1 at the end of last month, could
start with a 4-3-3 formation with Nicky Maynard impressing lately in an
unfamiliar wide role. One striker who might miss out on the trip is Sam
Baldock with rumours abound that the Ipswich target is close to agreeing a
£1.5 million switch to divisional rivals Bristol City. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce will have to make do without Olympic duo James Tomkins and Mohamed
Diame as well as the injured Kevin Nolan (toe) and George McCartney (sciatic
nerve), while Jack Collison has recently returned to full training.
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