Mediawatch - 2 January
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
02.01.2015
The Telegraph's match report of yesterday's 1-1 draw against West Bromwich
Albion leads on the presence at the Boleyn Ground of the Baggies' new head
coach Tony Pulis.
The Times (£) carries a preview of what every Barclays Premier League team
might do in the January transfer window.
Harry Redknapp admits in West London Sport that he is unsure whether a loan
move for Mauro Zarate will go through.
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Chadwell Chatter
WHUFC.com
Winger Matt Jarvis blogs for whufc.com on his return to action and hopes for
the future
02.01.2015
Hello everyone and a very happy New Year from myself and all the lads,
It was definitely a frustrating game on New Year's Day against West Bromwich
Albion. Obviously we really wanted to get the three points to start the New
Year, especially at home, so we were disappointed with that. You have to try
something different when it isn't working, as it wasn't really for us just
before and after half-time, so obviously the manager changed things around
and we managed to get in behind them and get some crosses in. Unfortunately,
we just couldn't get the ball in the back of the net. We had two very hard
games before that against Chelsea and Arsenal and to come away from them
with no points was tough, but they are top teams and extremely difficult to
play against.
It was disappointing not to get the three points on Thursday, but we got a
point and hopefully that will get us back on our way.
I don't think we have done anything particularly badly in the last few games
- we have just come up against two very good teams and another in West Brom,
who had every incentive to do well in front of their new manager.
Chelsea were fantastic on the day and are top of the league, another top
team in Arsenal, and West Brom really worked hard and were fighting for
everything and managed to hold on for the draw. We've made a fantastic start
to the season overall. If you had asked anyone where they would like to be
around the New Year, they'd have said near the top end of the table, and
that's where we are and deservedly so. The guys have been playing extremely
well and performances have been great. What we need to focus on now is
getting back to winning ways and, first of all, securing ourselves a place
in the top half. With where we are now, we should be aiming even higher.
From a personal point of view, I was pleased to get on the pitch and to play
well.
It's been a very frustrating time for me, so when you get a chance you need
to try and do well and hopefully I did that. I was extremely disappointed
and frustrated to get injured just before the start of the season because
ultimately that is what has cost me playing regularly in the opening half of
the season. Now I'm fully fit and I'm trying to get back in the team. We go
to Everton on Tuesday in the FA Cup third round and hopefully I can get
myself in the team for that one. It's an extremely tough place to go but I'm
really looking forward to it and hopefully I'll play my part. A few of the
lads are going away to the Africa Cup of Nations, but we've got a fantastic
squad and I'll certainly be looking to play a part, stay in the team and
help us move up the league.
Have a great 2015!
Jarvo
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West Ham winger Matt Jarvis determined to become a regular
Last Updated: 02/01/15 3:19pm
SSN
West Ham winger Matt Jarvis is determined to take his chance and become a
first-team regular in the new year. The 28-year-old was capped by England in
2011 but has struggled to establish himself as a first-choice at Upton Park
under Sam Allardyce. However, with the likes of Senegal duo Cheikhou Kouyate
and Diafra Sakho heading for the Africa Cup of Nations this month, Jarvis is
hopeful of benefitting having come off the bench to impressive effect in
Thursday's 1-1 draw with West Brom. Jarvis said: "It has been very
frustrating for me, but when you get a chance to play, you have to do well
and hopefully I have done that. "I was extremely disappointed to get injured
before the start of the season, that has cost me, but now I am back to being
fully fit and trying to get back into the team. "The two games before were
very hard fixtures and it would have been for any team. "We were
disappointed not to have taken all three points against West Brom, but it is
another point and we keep going."
"It has been very frustrating for me, but when you get a chance to play, you
have to do well and hopefully I have done that."
Matt Jarvis Next up for the Hammers is Tuesday's FA Cup third-round trip to
Everton - and Allardyce is grateful for the respite from a packed schedule.
He said: "It is a big FA Cup third-round tie on a Tuesday night, which is a
bit bizarre and something I don't think I have done before. "But it gives
the lads time to rest and recover and make sure we can put a team out to try
to get through to the next round."
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WHAT IS OUR BEST STRIKE PARTNERSHIP?
By Iain Dale 2 Jan 2015 at 08:11
West Ham till I Die
Andy Carroll was pants yesterday. He barely won a header, did nothing on the
ground and yet remained on the pitch until 5 minutes before the end. Cards
on table.I am a fan of Carroll.On his day he is unplayable. He is normally
great in the air, has a good first touch and is a much better goalscorer
than he is given credit for. However, since he has come back into the team
our style of play has reverted back, in some part, to the style of last
season. More balls are being humped up front instead of being played on the
ground.
When I was driving home to Norfolk yesterday evening I wondered to myself if
the result against WBA might have been different if Valencia and Sakho had
played together, as I said I hoped they would. We will never know. So is
Sakho/Carroll a better partnership than Valencia/Sakho? Well let's look at
the evidence.
So far this season Sakho and Valencia have started 8 games together, 7 in
the league. Andy Carroll has started 9 games and played with four different
strike partners – Cole, Zarate, Sakho and Valencia.
When Sakho & Valencia played together we lost only one game – at Old
Trafford. In the 7 league games they partnered each other we procured 14
points – 2 points per game. In the 9 games Andy Carroll has played in we
have also got points, at an average of 1.55 points per game.
Sakho is now off to the African Cup of Nations until early February, so we
are now likely to see a Carroll/Valencia partnership establish itself.
They've played twice together, against Chelsea and Swansea, so it's hard to
draw many conclusions from those games. Against Swansea, Carroll was on
fire. Let's hope the same thing happens on Tuesday against Everton and then
Saturday at Swansea.
Meanwhile, we wish Diafra Sakho the best of luck in Morrocco and beg him to
stay away from Sengalese needles!
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West Ham didn't beat West Brom because we tried TOO HARD to score huffs boss
Sam Allardyce
Jan 01, 2015 22:30 By Darren Lewis
"When we got 1-0 up, we didn't need to keep being adventurous. We paid the
price for that" claims manager who wanted his lads to shut up shop instead
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce admitted his West Ham side paid the price for being too
cavalier against Tony Pulis-inspired West Brom. The Hammers were expected to
bounce back to winning ways after defeats away to Chelsea and at home to
Arsenal. But Diafra Sakho's 10th-minute goal was cancelled out by Saido
Berahino's 42nd-minute strike. West Ham then failed to break the the Baggies
down. Allardyce said of the 1-1 draw: "The players should have focused on
keeping a clean sheet. Today was about the result, not the performance,
because the performance was never going to be great. "When we got 1-0 up, we
didn't need to keep being adventurous. We paid the price for that.
West Brom were offering really not a lot and we left the back door open on
the counter-attack. We then had to break down an even more stubborn defence.
I didn't think there was a lot of adventure from West Brom. We are facing
more and more of this type of defensive solidarity from the opposition that
we have to break down. "The effort from the players was tremendous given it
was the third match in five days but we were not quite good enough in the
final third to finish off West Brom. "We put so much effort into the last
three games that it was never going to be anything but a tired performance
from both teams. "When you are fatigued, more mistakes happen."
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A little perspective is needed at West Ham
Date: 2nd January 2015 at 8:00 pm
Written by: Kwame Boakye | Forever WestHam
A solitary point from our festive fixtures… not exactly what we were
expecting after Leicester City were brushed aside with a stylish aplomb,
however three poor results haven't suddenly wrecked our season.
I think at times like this where dissenting voices are once again making
their voices heard a little perspective is needed. Yes we can't at this
moment in time look at the table and sit there all smug and sated as we're
no longer occupying fourth spot, but we are still firmly in the mix for it.
It wasn't so long ago that Southampton lost four or five in a row and were
written off by so called 'experts' they've now recovered and once again are
flavour of the month.
Our next opponents are having a dreadful season; they are woefully
underperforming and in the hostile and fickle world of football management;
Roberto Martinez who last season heralded as taking Everton onto the next
level is now firmly in the firing line. Everton along with Arsenal have
taken the mantle of being our official 'bogey sides' however surely given
Everton's woeful form we can go into that game hopeful of a spot in the
fourth round of the cup and not the inevitable defeat we all assumed was in
the bag when the draw was first made.
Our season is simply no longer defined by staying up but it is worth noting
that with twenty games gone we are now sitting fifteen points clear of the
bottom three whilst Manchester United in third are only five points better
off than us. I think we all would've settled for that at this stage of the
campaign. This season we've gone from being a perennial joke to one of the
better sides the league has to offer; and this transformation shouldn't be
buried with a few less than desirable results.
This season on a couple of occasions we've won three games on the spin and I
don't think any of us thought we'd cracked it and the league was ours for
the taking; so just because we've now gone three games without a win doesn't
mean the wheels have suddenly come off our season.
The murmurings of the #AllardyceOut brigade who never really went away but
merely went into hibernation really do not hold much of any substance, the
improvement this season has been beyond what anyone could envisage or
imagine and as manager Sam should take the plaudits.
If you want to look at the effects on a side of constantly changing their
manager you need look no further than our opponents on New Year's Day…West
Brom could actually hold an ex-managers convention for the last three
seasons and get a decent turnout, especially if you figured in caretakers,
are they any better off for it?
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Andy Carroll and Billi Mucklow house: The internet has not reacted kindly to
'Carroll Castle' shared by West Ham striker and Towie fiancée
JAMES ORR Author Biography Friday 02 January 2015
The independent
With West Ham not playing Everton in the FA Cup third round until Tuesday
night, Hammers striker Andy Carroll might be able to find the time to do
some decorating in his bonkers Essex home over the weekend, which he shares
with his pregnant fiancée, Towie star Billi Mucklow.
Mucklow has kept followers on her Instagram account entertained throughout
the festive period, posting a series of pictures from their new home, which
she has affectionately named Carroll Castle.
The plush Essex pad features Mucklow's own beauty salon, called
"Billutifuls", a disco-themed dining room, a zebra-walled living room with
bright pink sofa, plus a bedroom with a mirrored ceiling.
But the images have not been received well on Twitter, with users today
blasting the pair for their questionable taste.
Gemma Kirman @GemmaKirman
Did Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen decorate Andy Carroll's house?! #andycarroll
This Is Beats @ThisIsBeats
Photos from Andy Carroll's house prove that money cannot buy taste. ANDY,
DORIEN FROM BIRDS OF A FEATHER PHONED. WANTS HER FURNITURE BACK.
westhamutd @JonesVince77779
@IndyFootball @Independent #Wtf was he thinking ! May have loads of money
but you cant buy class. #whufc
Roisin Glynn @RoisinGlynn
Just saw pictures of @AndyTCarroll & @BilliMucklow 's house. There are no
words! My eyes hurt #tack
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West Ham January transfer dossier: Allardyce looks for Diafra Sakho and
Cheikhou Kouyate back-ups
Eduardo Fernandez-Abascal By Eduardo Fernandez-Abascal
January 2, 2015 06:06 GMT
IBTimes UK
The Hammers are proving to be the revelation of the Premier League –
alongside Southampton – after an excellent summer transfer window.
Following a struggling last campaign, Allardyce's signings have changed both
the style of the team and the target. While last season they battled for the
relegation with a defensive approach, the East London side are now
challenging for the Champions League spot despite the recent defeats against
Chelsea and Arsenal.
What they need:
With things going smoothly for West Ham, the best advice would be not to
change anything. However, with Mauro Zarate set to join QPR and with Diafra
Sakho and Cheikhou Kouyate expected to play the Africa Cup of Nations next
month - which runs from January 17 to February 8 – Allardyce needs to cope
with their absences somehow.
Alex Song will finally not make the same trip, but considering Sakho and
Kouyaté have been crucial in the impressive start to the campaign, Allardyce
is open to new additions.
So, even though Andy Carroll's excelling return to action have added enough
goals to cope without Sakho up front, the boss is open to bolster both the
attack and the midfield.
Who could join:
The Hammers are expected to sign Canada international centre-back Doneil
Henry from Cypriot club Apollon Limassol for around £1.5m. He was
recommended to Allardyce by his former captain at Blackburn Rovers, Ryan
Nelsen, who coached the 21-year-old star at Toronto.
Who could leave:
Mauro Zarate is set to complete his move to QPR while Ravel Morrison can
follow in his footsteps in a last attempt to resurrect his career. Even
though the former Manchester United talent enjoyed a promising start at
Upton Park, he eventually failed to make the impact expected at East London.
He was also unable to prove his worth during his loan spell at Cardiff.
Furthermore, Matt Jarvis and Ricardo Vaz Te may also leave the team after
falling out of favour.
Meanwhile, Winston Reid is said to have attracted the attention of some of
the big teams, but Allardyce recently claimed he would rather let the
centre-back leave for nothing next summer than sell him in January.
What the manager has said:
Sam Allardyce has targeted a top signing in the January transfer window but
is aware of the club's troubles regarding the Financial Fair Play
regulations.
"Everybody has to understand we are well into the second year of FFP so we
are all in a much more difficult position when every window comes, with the
limit on spending power, not just transfer fees but wages. And that's across
the board now.
"So I'd say one top player, if he became available, would be something we'd
pursue - but someone may have to leave to fund that. There's no point in
bringing in anybody less than a top player because what we've got now is top
drawer at the minute. We've got 22 players all fighting for places in the
team and playing really, really well."
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New Sakho back injury may hit Senegal
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 1, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Diafra Sakho is believed to have again injured his back and will be
carefully monitored over the next two or three days by club medics!
The striker left the action against West Bromwich Albion in the 72nd holding
his back after just failing to score from a sitting position during a
goalmouth melee. And although it's too early to say, there's a possibility
that the injury could keep him out of the African Nations Cup Tournament
which kicks off in Equatorial Guinea on January 17. A club source told
ClaretandHugh a few minutes ago: "We think the boy has done his back again.
It's a recurring injury now since he was with Senegal last time. It's become
a problem." Whether the fresh injury will keep him at home is in the balance
but the potential for a club v country battle is very much on the cards.
Club officials remain upset that Sakho has a problem at all and our source
said tonight: "They messed him up in the first place, now he has a recurring
back injury. "However, the situation is that they can pick him right up to
17th and they might want him in Dakar for their medical people to inspect
the injury. We'll know a lot more over the next few days/weeks."
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Redknapp clears up Zarate rumours
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 2, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Harry Redknapp has this morning made it clear that Mauro Zarate has NOT
failed a Queens Park Rangers medical but that a deal to take him to Loftus
Road has still not been completed. The former Hammers boss – still seething
over ten-man Swansea's late equaliser against the Hoops yesterday – told
ClaretandHugh: " The medical is fine, but the deal still has to be done."
Twitter was alive last night with rumours that the Argentinian had indeed
failed his medical but that is simply not true. Redknapp said: "Everything
is alright on the medical front but no it hasn't happened yet – we'll see.
There's no big rush."
Asked by us whether he was considering other options Redknapp said: "We're
not sure what we are doing yet – that may be correct.
"To be honest after what happened late in the game yesterday I don't even
want to talk to my wife!"
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Sakho may face lengthy lay off
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 2, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham medics believe Diafra Sakho could be out of action for between two
and five weeks after injuring his back against West Bromwich Albion
yesterday. And that could see him miss the African Cup of Nations tournament
for his international team Senegal which kicks off in Equatorial Guinea on
January 17. Although the player faces a scan, the early signs are not good
although the Hammers are bracing themselves for the player to be checked by
Senegal international bosses. A Hammers source said today: "That would
involve Diafra in travelling to Dakar. They may want to check that it is a
genuine injury, It is! "Because of the damage done to his back on the last
international outing when receiving treatment, this is now a recurring
injury. "An early check on the problem by our medics shows the situation
maybe as it was before – a two to five week lay off. "However, Diafra is a
quick healer so hopefully he could be back sooner rather than later and has
the two weeks to make the competition. He can be called up right up to the
16th. The scan will obviously tell us a lot more so fingers crossed"
Sakho came off midway through the second half holding his back after being
involved in a goalmouth scramble from which he attempted to score whilst in
a sitting position
'
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Hammers warn Redknapp on Zarate
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 2, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Harry Redknapp has been told to make up his mind over Mauro Zarate or risk
losing out on taking the player to Queens Park Rangers on loan for the rest
of the season. Redknapp told ClaretandHugh this morning that although the
Argentinian striker had passed a medical with the club, he still hadn't made
up his mind on the deal. However the Irons are in no mood to wait long for
an answer on the player and are not interested in playing games over the
terms of the deal given the amount of interest in Zarate. The player himself
wants to stay in London but the Hammers will refuse to get involved in any
wheeling or dealing on how much Rangers pay on wages which could be the
cause of the delay. A Hammers told us: "We are not going to get into ducking
and diving over this. The terms of the deal are known to Rangers and that's
that. "Its up to them but we'll keep him if they try to change the deal. We
have interest from three other Premier League clubs, plus 12 clubs abroad."
These are thought to include Newcastle and Sunderland along with two or
three Italian outfits so there's next to no chance of the Hammers having an
unhappy player on their hands.
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Disappointed Gold: "Fatigue factor worse for WBA"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 2, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold has described the 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion as " a
bad day at the office" and has refused to make excuses for the performance.
Nor does he believe that the players can use "fatigue" as a reason for not
performing better adding: "It was the same for both teams – in fact worse
for Albion because they had to travel." He told ClaretandHugh: "It wasn't
our day but there's no way I can or will make excuses for the display. Our
worst performance of the season was probably against Southampton but this
one was poor.
We got the first goal and had a great start but then a team that is
struggling at the wrong end of the table went up the other end and got an
equaliser. "This was a disappointing performance in a game we expected to
win and one point from nine over the Christmas was also disappointing. "We
move on to the FA Cup and put it behind us."
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Friday, January 2
Daily WHUFC News - 2nd January 2015
Hammers denied by stubborn Baggies
WHUFC.com
West Ham United had to settle for a point against West Bromwich Albion on
New Year's Day
01.01.2015
Barclays Premier League
West Ham United 1-1 West Bromwich Albion
West Ham United were held to a 1-1 Barclays Premier League draw at home to
struggling West Bromwich Albion on New Year's Day, as Saido Berahino's tidy
finish cancelled out Diafra Sakho's headed opener. The Hammers had looked to
be heading for a first win in three when Sakho stooped to nod home his
eighth league goal of the campaign after eleven minutes, but Berahino
rounded off an excellent Albion counter with a cool 42nd-minute finish.
Aaron Cresswell struck a post for the hosts, while Youssouf Mulumbu spurned
Albion's best chance of the half as Sam Allardyce's men were forced to
settle for a frustrating point at the Boleyn Ground.
Big Sam had earlier made just two changes to the side edged out by Arsenal
on Sunday, with Carl Jenkinson back in his familiar right-back berth and
James Collins drafted in for the suspended James Tomkins. Though the
Baggies gave as good as they got in the opening exchanges, West Ham were
soon into their stride and had a first sight of goal in the seventh minute.
It came courtesy of some lovely crisp football on the edge of the box, with
Cresswell fizzing it into Stewart Downing and then collecting a return ball
from Cheikhou Kouyate. Now in on goal, the full-back could not quite shake
off the attentions of Gareth McCauley whose intervention ensured the No3's
effort was a tame one.
If the first move was stylish, that which brought the goal four minutes
later was majestic. Downing's lofted pass was belatedly collected by Morgan
Amalfitano and the Frenchman, against his old club, slid a brilliant ball
inside the full-back into the path of Cresswell. Without breaking stride,
Cresswell whipped a first-time ball toward the near post, where Sakho
stooped to guide a header into the far corner.
With the newly-appointed Tony Pulis watching on from the stands, the Hammers
stepped on the gas and Downing ran menacingly at McCauley, before testing
Ben Foster in the Albion goal. At the other end, Adrian pulled off a
magnificent stop to deny Chris Baird midway through the half, as the
Spaniard dove to his left to repel a rocket of a volley from Mulumbu's
centre. Sessegnon should have done a great deal better when teed up by
Andre Wisdom, but screwed horribly wide of the near post. He would make
amends three minutes before the interval, as the architect of the visitors'
simple, but well-worked leveller. The Beninese man ran at Collins and as he
made his way into the box squared it for Berahino, whose first-time finish
into the right corner was unerring.
Adrian was called upon again four minutes after the restart, when Berahino's
low drive clipped Collins and required a smart stop from the Spaniard down
low to his right. They came closer still through Mulumbu moments later,
though having been played in by Sessegnon, he slammed an effort into the
side netting. As the hour-mark approached, West Brom had the woodwork to
thank for keeping the Hammers at bay. After Sakho had been felled, Cresswell
took charge of the set-piece and was so unlucky to see his curler thud back
off the right-hand upright, with Foster well beaten. Downing was next to try
his luck, with his trademark jink inside onto his left foot, though this
time his strike flew narrowly over the top.
With quarter-of-an-hour still to play, substitute Enner Valencia picked out
Jarvis from the right, but the former Wolverhampton Wanderers man failed to
connect properly with his right and Foster gathered. Carlton Cole joined the
fray late on, but it was the Baggies who had the better of the dying
minutes, with Silvestre Varela curling a right-footed strike a yard or two
wide of the far post.
West Ham United: Adrian, Jenkinson Collins, Reid, Cresswell, Song (c),
Amalfitano (Jarvis 60), Kouyate, Downing, Sakho (Valencia 72), Carroll (Cole
84)
Subs: Jaaskelainen, Nolan, Noble, O'Brien
Goal: Sakho 11
Booked: Kouyate
West Bromwich Albion: Foster, Wisdom, Baird, Lescott, McAuley, Mulumbu
(Yacob 66), Brunt, Sessegnon, Morrison, Dorrans (Varela 79), Berahino (Ideye
73)
Subs: Myhill, Gamboa, Dawson, Nabi
Goal: Berahino 42
Referee: Jonathan Moss
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'We weren't ruthless or clinical enough'
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce admitted his West Ham United team did not hit top gear against
West Bromwich Albion
01.01.2015
Sam Allardyce admitted his West Ham United team had not hit top gear as they
began 2015 with a 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion.
The Hammers looked to be on course for the happiest of New Years when Diafra
Sakho headed the hosts in front at the end of a flowing move on ten minutes
- his first goal in five appearances.
However, Albion gradually worked their way back into the game and, with West
Ham struggling with their own passing rhythm, Stephane Sessegnon and Saido
Berahino capped a counter-attack when the Benin international set up the
young forward for his ninth goal of the season.
A second half change in formation and personnel - Matt Jarvis replacing
former Baggie Morgan Amalfitano - saw the home side regain the ascendancy,
but the closest they came to a winner was when Aaron Cresswell's 25-yard
free-kick hit the post.
"I think we went chasing the second goal too much when we didn't need to,"
the manager observed. "It was a slower game because both sets of players
were fatigued after three games in six days, so if you take your using the
ball and be more patient, then don't over-extend yourselves.
"We over-extended ourselves when we didn't need to and allowed the
opposition a quick breakaway goal from a counter-attack. We left ourselves
two-on-two at the back and that's the last thing you do when you're winning.
"You might do it if you're 1-0 down with ten minutes to go, but you don't do
it when you're 1-0 up and just coming to the end of the first half. It
wasn't Ginge or Reidy's fault, but the fault of the full-backs and midfield
players gallivanting forward and over-committing to try and score another
goal.
"That was the sad thing, because the result was the all-important thing for
us and we didn't get the win that we wanted.
"I can't praise the players enough for the effort they have put in over the
last three games, even though we've only got one point.
"In the end it was disappointing we didn't win, because I thought Aaron had
won it for us with a super-duper free-kick that hit the post. The other
chances that fell to us, we unfortunately didn't find the quality to finish
West Brom off when, in all fairness, they were there for the taking.
"We weren't quite ruthless or clinical enough to get the three points, but
one point is accepted and moves us forward after two defeats on the trot. We
get ready for Everton now and pick a team with what's available to us, with
the lads going off to the African Nations Cup, and move on from there.
"It's a big FA Cup third-round tie on Tuesday night, which is a bit bizarre
and something I don't think I've done before, but it gives the lads time to
rest and recover and make sure we can put a team out to try to get through
to the next round."
West Ham's goal against West Brom was their one moment of outstanding
quality from open play, with a move involving Stewart Downing, Amalfitano
and Cresswell, ended with the left-back's cross being nodded in by a diving
Sakho.
Unfortunately, the Hammers could not replicate that fluency against a West
Brom team determined to impress watching new manager Tony Pulis. Big Sam
said that could be put down to the busy festive schedule taking its toll on
his players.
"When fatigue kicks in, more mistakes happen and that happened to both
sides. The crowd got frustrated, but they have to accept that these boys
have given everything they've got over the last three games and this one was
always going to be one where the energy levels would not be as high.
"That's three big games over Christmas and our points tally was very
disappointing in the end, but we have to accept that and try and bounce
back. "We've stopped the losing run with a draw and now we want to go to
Everton and get a winning run going again."
One worrying moment was the sight of goalscorer Sakho being led off with a
back injury following a goalmouth scramble midway through the second half.
Big Sam said the injury would be assessed on Friday. "We have to have a scan
on it and see what condition his back is in. Obviously it's a similar
situation to when he last came back from [international duty with] Senegal,
so on Friday the lads will send him for a scan and we'll see how it goes
from there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Downing - 'A point was fair'
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing was disappointed the Hammers did not make more of their
clash with West Brom
01.01.2015
Stewart Downing was disappointed to miss an opportunity to move back into
the Barclays Premier League top five on New Year's Day.
The Hammers suffered a frustrating start to the New Year when Saido Berahino
cancelled out Diafra Sakho's early opener, and Downing felt the team's
performance did not warrant the maximum reward. He said: "I think a point
was probably a fair result, but from our point of view it's disappointing.
"With our home form we wanted to get back to winning ways after Christmas,
but they made it difficult for us and on our part our final third ball was
disappointing. "It was a really good goal to put us 1-0 up. It was a good
move and we felt we could kick on after getting the early goal. We sat back
a little bit, got sloppy and got caught on the counter attack, which we said
before the game we didn't want to do because they've got quality players.
"They made it difficult for us and it's just disappointing because I
expected us to get three points on Thursday."
That expectation is something the Hammers have to get used to after their
stunning start to the season, according to Downing. He added: "The standard
we've set, with the teams we've beaten at home, means people expect you to
win these kind of games. Obviously it doesn't work like that, they're
fighting for their lives and a new manager coming in has given them a
gee-up. "We didn't capitalise, if we had kicked on after the goal, pressed
them and gone for the second goal we might have closed the game out. But
when it's 1-0 they've always got a chance. "Teams are catching us up and for
us we need to get back to how we've been doing. We had a few half chances to
nick it, but we've got Everton in the Cup before Swansea. We've beaten them
already in the league so we're looking to get back to winning ways."
Downing is looking forward to taking on Everton in the FA Cup, with progress
deep in that competition at the forefront of his mind. He explained: "It's a
big game for us on Tuesday. Everyone wants to do well and progress and we'll
have a couple of days rest before getting back to normal week-to-week
football. "I'm not sure if it's a good time to be playing them. Everton is
always a difficult place to go, no matter how they're doing. They play some
great football and it's only one result around the corner rom them kicking
on and we don't want to be that team. "We were unlucky in the league there
so we owe them one."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 1 West Brom 1
1 January 2015
Last updated at 19:58
By Saj Chowdhury
BBC Sport
New manager Tony Pulis watched West Brom produce a gutsy performance to pick
up a deserved point at West Ham. Despite taking a seat in the stands, Pulis
appeared to relay instructions to the players and also visited the dressing
room at half-time. His new side conceded in the 10th minute when Diafra
Sakho headed in Aaron Cresswell's left-wing cross. Saido Berahino levelled
just before the break when he converted Stephane Sessegnon's cross from 10
yards. West Brom stay a point clear of the relegation zone in 17th while
West Ham drop to seventh, after Tottenham defeated Chelsea 5-3 in the
evening fixture.. Hammers manager Sam Allardyce said he was wary that West
Brom's players would raise their levels in order to impress their new
manager and they certainly played positively. The defence showed the sort of
resilience associated with Pulis sides, with Gareth McAuley and Joleon
Lescott keeping the in-form Andy Carroll quiet.
At the other end, most attacks went through Beninese midfielder Sessegnon,
who combined pace with intelligent play in the final third to give the
Hammers backline a tough workout. It was the home side, on the back of two
defeats, who started the brightest and took the lead when striker Sakho
scored as he charged in to meet Cresswell's cross. It was the Senegal
international's fifth headed goal in the Premier League this season. Instead
of crumbling, the Baggies regrouped and were unfortunate not to equalise
when Chris Baird's instinctive toe-poked volley was brilliantly saved by
Adrian.
They did beat the Spanish keeper with the move of the match. Straight from a
West Ham set-piece in their own area, the Baggies broke with Berahino
feeding Sessegnon who returned the ball with a precise square pass, which
was converted with a calm finish. After the break, Albion's technical
director Terry Burton and Dave Kemp, Pulis's former assistant at Stoke and
Crystal Palace, were sent to the bench by the new manager with instructions
for assistants Rob Kelly and Keith Downing. Pulis need not have worried too
much because, aside from a Cresswell free-kick against the foot of the post,
the Hammers rarely worried West Brom keeper Ben Foster. In fact, it could
have been all three points in his first match had Berahino's shot caught a
big enough deflection off James Collins to beat Adrian. Pulis's first match
on the bench will be an FA Cup third-round tie against Gateshead, before his
side are at home to fellow strugglers Hull.
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce: "In terms of the players and where they are
it was a big effort. "It would be nothing else other than a tired
performance from both teams today. When you fatigue like the lads are going
to do, more mistakes happen and that has to be accepted. "Today it was about
the result, not about the performance because the performance was never
going to be great. Never. Not after you have asked the players to play a
third time in six days - what we needed was to get the result and,
unfortunately, we didn't get it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Exposing the long ball myth?
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 1st January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Andy Carroll's return to the first team has increased West Ham's use of the
'long ball' - although not by as much as you might imagine.
Prior to the Christmas programme, KUMB published a table showing how
frequently the long ball was being used, in the wake of constant claims that
Sam Allardyce's team was still as direct as before.
A popular view is that the return of Andy Carroll to the starting XI has
seen increased use of long, direct passes to the front man - and as our
table illustrates, of West Ham's 20 Premier League games so far this season
Carroll appears in all but two of of the top ten games in which the long
ball has been most employed.
Yet only once this season have more than a quarter of West Ham's passes been
of the long variety - and that was in the 2-1 win against Manchester City,
when Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia were the chosen front two.
To give an indication of whether Carroll's return had seen a return to more
direct football, we've updated our chart to include all games leading up to
and including today's 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion.
And although the evidence suggests the team are slightly more inclined to go
direct with Carroll in the team, the difference is negligible - which goes
some way to exposing the myth that West Ham with Carroll have just one way
of playing.
West Ham United: long passes this season
(total passes in parenthesis)
1. Sakho & Valencia v Man City (h): 70 (239) 29.3%
2. Carroll v Chelsea (a): 72 (300) 24.0%
3. Carroll & Sakho v Leicester (h): 78 (347) 22.5%
4. Carroll & Zarate v West Brom (a): 80 (362) 22.1%
5. Valencia v Stoke (a): 64 (307) 20.8%
6. Carroll & Cole v Everton (a): 69 (340) 20.3%
7. Carroll & Valencia v Swansea (h): 81 (405) 20.0%
8. Carroll & Sakho v Arsenal (h): 76 (385) 19.7%
9. Cole & Vaz Te v Southampton (h): 63 (337) 18.7%
10. Carroll v Newcastle (h): 68 (367) 18.5%
11. Carroll & Sakho v Sunderland (a): 61 (334) 18.3%
12. Sakho & Valencia v Liverpool (h): 50 (276) 18.1%
13. Sakho & Valencia v Queens Park Rangers (h): 72 (402) 17.9%
14. Sakho & Valencia v Burnley (a): 75 (425) 17.6%
15. Carroll & Sakho v West Brom (h): 68 (396) 17.2%
16. Sakho & Valencia v Aston Villa (h): 68 (431) 15.8%
17. Cole & Vaz Te v Tottenham (h): 65 (414) 15.7%
18. Cole & Vaz Te v Crystal Palace (a): 69 (454) 15.2%
19. Sakho & Valencia v Man Utd (a): 50 (351) 14.3%
20. Sakho & Valencia v Hull (a): 55 (478) 11.5%
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to miss Sakho, Kouyate and Song for FA Cup tie
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 1st January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce has confirmed that he will be without all three of his
prospective AFCON players when West Ham travel to Everton for the 3rd round
of the FA Cup on Tuesday evening.
Cheik Kouyate and Diafra Sakho are both set to feature for Senegal in the
tournament, which begins in a fortnight's time, whilst Alex Song may yet
resolve his differences with Cameroon manager Volker Finke and feature for
his country.
However none will be available for the trip to Goodison Park on Tuesday
evening, as confirmed by Allardyce in his post-match press conference this
evening.
When asked whether Song would be going, Big Sam replied: "I don't know, is
the answer to that. Alex is having his own conversation with the manager of
Cameroon and they'll decide between them.
"It's not our decision - we've got no rights over Alex in terms of whether
he goes or doesn't go."
There is also some doubt as to whether Sakho will now be going, after he was
substituted with what appeared to be a re-occurrence of the back injury
which kept him out of action earlier in the season.
When asked to clarify the situation, Allardyce answered: "We don't know
until we assess the back injury he came off with today. That will have to be
scanned tomorrow and we'll see what the extent of the damage is."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mauro Zarate move to QPR in doubt
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 1st January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Mauro Zarate's loan switch to Queens Park Rangers could be OFF, according to
Rs boss Harry Redknapp. Redknapp, who watched his side draw 1-1 with Swansea
this afternoon was asked about the delay with the transfer, which some
sources had claimed was a done deal as early as last weekend, in his
post-match press conference tonight. "I'm not sure [what the situation is],"
he replied. "We'll wait and see what happens. We'll have to look at it and
see where we go." And when pushed for a definitive answer on whether Zarate
would be joining Rangers, he replied simply: "Maybe. I'm not sure."
Rumours that emerged on the KUMB forum this morning prior to Redknapp
commenting suggested that the delay was due to a failed medical, although
this remains unsubstantiated. Either way, Zarate is currently in limbo
having burnt his bridges with Sam Allardyce last week.
Speaking via his brother, the 27-year-old Argentine had insisted the reason
he hadn't featured more often was because his arrival at West Ham had been
engineered by Chairman David Sullivan, not Allardyce.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce on... West Bromwich Albion
KUMb.com
Filed: Thursday, 1st January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce was as frustrated as the rest of us at his team's inability to
break down a stubborn West Brom. Hear what the boss had to say in his
post-match press conference, exclusively in full here...
Sam: what did you make of that performance?
In terms of the players and where they are - it was their third game in six
days - it was a big effort. The effort was there to try and break down a
stubborn West Brom defence in the end. When we went one-nil up we didn't
need to start being over-adventurous, but that's exactly what we carried on
doing and we paid the price for that.
West Brom weren't offering a lot but we left the back door open on the
counter attack. Then we had to go and break a more stubborn defensive unit
down once they'd got back to one-one and we found that difficult to do in
the end. I though Aaron Cresswell had done it with one fantastic free kick.
It looked a goal all-ends-up, it fooled the 'keeper but unfortunately it hit
the post and came out.
Our finishing quality was something we needed to finish West Brom off, but
we couldn't find it today. Effort-wise it was a tremedous effort from the
players, giving everything they'd got but it wasn't quite good enough in the
final third to finish West Brom off.
Was it a tired performance after that recent run?
We've put so much effort into the last three games that it'd be nothing else
but a tired performance from both teams today. It was always going to be a
lower temo game, having played three games in six days and that's why we
needed to be a little more patient, take a litle bit more care of the ball.
But when you're fatigued, like the lads are definitely going to be at this
stage of the season, playing that many games in a short space of time,
mistakes are going to happen. That has to be accepted, when players are
asked to go again and again and again three times in six days - more
mistakes will occur.
We just needed to find a little bit more quality in the final third but
couldn't find it today. Whislt we got in front with a very good goal - a top
quality finish from Diaf and a quality cross - we couldn't find that quality
again to break West Brom down.
Was it a worry with their new manager in the stands? Do the players find
that extra yard?
Yes and no, but I didn't think there was a lot there, a lot of adventure
from West Brom today. We're facing more and more of this type of defensive
solidarity from the opposition that we have to break down on the basis of
how much we've achieved this year. Today we couldn't find enough quality to
break that down after it went to one-one.
We did find enough quality to get us one-nil in front and for me the players
should have focused on keeping a clean sheet. Once we'd got one-nil up we'd
won the game by then. Today was about the result, not the performance
because the performance was never going to be great today. Never. Not when
you ask the players to play three games in six days. We needed to get a
result, but unfortunately we didn't get it.
Can you just clear up the situation with Alex Song? Is he now not going to
the AFCON?
We don't know until we assess the back injury he came off with today. That
will have to be scanned tomorrow and we'll see what the extent of the damage
is.
Sorry - I thought you meant Diafra Sakho. Song, Sakho... [laughs] I don't
know, is the answer to that. Alex is having his own conversation with the
manager of Cameroon and they'll decide between them. Not us, it's not our
decision - we've got no rights over Alex in terms of whether he goes or
doesn't go.
The two Senegal players - will they be available for the Everton game?
No. Neither will Alex. Happy new year, lads.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kelly on... West Ham United
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 1st January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Rob Kelly faced the press on behalf of West Brom in tonight's post-match
press conference for the first and last time, with new man Tony Pulis
waiting in the wings and dipping into the dressing room...
Rob: A good point, do you feel?
Yes, I felt it was. In the end it could have gone either way; they've hit
the post and we've had a couple of good opportunities late on but I thought
we deserved to get something out of the game, overall.
Everyone was talking about the Tony Pulis effect; how much input did he have
today?
I'm sure it had an effect. He introduced himself this morning to the players
and popped in at half time and said one or two things. He came in at the end
of the game but he's let myself, Keith and Dean get on with the preparation
and organisation. As I said the other day, anyone who knows Alan knows how
well organised and planned he is.
We'd spoken about the group of games as a whole. We had an outline, but that
can change a little bit as there's a lot of games in a short period of time
and people pick up bumps, knocks and bruises. We'd gone through it all with
Alan [Irvine] and we did most of the work there. Then we spoke about the
team that we were thinking of playing. So a lot of it was done and Tony and
David Kemp let us get on with the preparation and organisation side.
We saw David come down into the dugout in the second half before a
substitution?
He just came up with one or two suggestions, that was it.
Do you think the quick appointment helped the players?
I don't know, you'd have to ask them that.
What were the suggestions at half time?
Well they were football suggestions in the dressing room, so that's dressing
room-type stuff.
Considering where West Ham are in the table, how much of a lift will that
give everyone?
I think it will. They're a top six side, West Ham and they've built and
built. Sam and his staff have done a fantastic job here to keep moving it
on. It's a difficult place to come. We played them a month ago and they beat
us at our place. We played well in the second half. But when you come to
somewhere like this to go away with something is pleasing. We're pleased we
got something.
Morale must have been affected by the events of the past few days. Can you
tell us how Tony's appointment affected the players today?
You'd have to ask them that. It was brief, me and the staff were told this
morning. He introduced himself to the players and we got on with it. They're
very professional so the preparation was done before hand. They were
organised...
But what changes did you see, being in the dressing room?
I saw what I see every week, really - a group of footballers, focused
professionals determined to do well. I can't look inside their heads, I
don't know what they're thinking. Were they any more fired up? I didn't see
that , but you'd have to ask them. They're individuals, they're human beings
so yuo'd have to ask them.
It was a bit of an odd game in the sense that for 20 minutes West Ham seemed
to be on top, but then they seemed to stop playing and you came into the
game. Any explanation for why that happened?
Obviously the goal rocked us but we recovered quite quickly. We set up the
way we were going to play and the way we thought West Ham would play. We've
worked for the last couple of days on that, although we've not been able to
do loads and loads. Like West Ham and everybody else, we're playing a lot of
games in a short period of time and it all unfolded that way.
We felt as long as we stayed - even at 1-0, as long as we didn't concede
another one - that [we were still in the game]. We've got good players and
as long as we did what we were capable of doing, we are capable of giving
any team a problem. That's how it unfolded. There's never a bad time to scoe
a goal, but obviously the equaliser helped. We created a couple of good
chancecs before that, so we stuck at it.
Among those good players is Saido Berahino; how important is it that the
club resist whatever interest there may be out there?
He's a promising young player and the game isn't littered with them - an
English striker who scores goals. He's obviously a big asset to the club.
What does this team need to do to get back up the table and to safety, which
is obviously the aim?
I think they've got to keep doing a lot of what they've been doing. It's
been little small things - and eventually small things make big things. In
the last couple of games we've had people uncharacteristically make
individual erros - which you get in a period of time during the season. Ours
have sort of collated, all in a number of games - but there's not a great
deal wrong.
They've got to stick with and believe what they do. The club had a big
change in the summer, a lot of players - 13 or 14 out, and 10 or 11 in.
Whatever you say, that does take some time to bed in and bring to fruition.
Everyone wants it now, they want it today which we all understand but it was
always going to take a little bit of time. You can't have that sort of
chance and it all just automatically happen - or very rarely. It was always
going to need a bit of time.
Was the decision to start with Sessegnon taken by yourself?
Myself, Keith and Dean. Alan [Irvine] had already spoke about the games he'd
play, or Brown Ideye. Sess has probably done a little bit more than we'd
planned but he's been great and just got on with it.
Anyone who knows Alan knows how well he's organised structurally and on the
football front. We'd planned it as best we could but we can't look into the
future and say 'he'll definitely play', becasue you're going to pick up
bumps and bruises. Generally the outline was there with Saido earmarked to
play in this one.
He took his goal well?
He did take his goal well. He's a good finisher.
Did Tony say anything in the dressing room after? Did he congratulate the
players, or..?
I'm here. I've come to sort it out pretty quick, so...
Thank you, gentlemen.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Brom end run of three defeats with 1-1 draw at West Ham as Tony Pulis
watches on
Last Updated: 01/01/15 6:49pm
SSN
Tony Pulis watched from the stands as his new West Bromwich Albion team
earned a battling 1-1 draw with West Ham United at Upton Park.
Saido Berahino struck just before half-time to cancel out an early opener
from Diafra Sakho in an entertaining first period, while Aaron Cresswell's
thundering free-kick against the post was a rare highlight in the second.
With Pulis set to take charge of the first team for Saturday's FA Cup tie
with Gateshead, Albion turned in an impressive performance that ended a run
of three consecutive defeats, although they have won only one of their last
10 matches. The visitors were the better team in the early stages, with
Stephane Sessegnon in particular pulling the strings in midfield from the
outset. The Benin international had a shot well blocked by James Collins
after the first of many incisive, driving runs, while Cresswell stabbed
tamely at Ben Foster as West Ham began to atone for a sluggish start.
Sucker punch
The Hammers barely got out of their own half in the first 10 minutes, but
they still managed to take the lead in the 11th minute as Cresswell whipped
in a superb first-time cross from the left for an unmarked Sakho to glance
past Foster from close range. Stewart Downing's deflected shot was blocked
by Foster before the Baggies almost levelled when Youssuf Mulumbu's cross to
the far post was met by a cracking first-time volley from Chris Baird, but
Adrian pulled off a smart reaction save to keep his side in front. Sessegnon
scuffed wide and Chris Brunt hooked inches past the upright as Albion
continued to press, while James Morrison's curling effort sailed narrowly
over the bar. But three minutes before the break, West Brom were rewarded
for their attacking intent as Sessegnon sauntered down the left from a
flowing counter-attack and crossed low for Berahino, who side-footed calmly
past Adrian from 10 yards.
Close shaves
Berahino came close to doubling his tally five minutes after the interval,
when his shot took a wild deflection off Collins and was beaten away at full
stretch by Adrian. Mulumbu blazed into the side-netting from another neat
lay-off by Sessegnon, but it was West Ham who came closest to another goal
when Cresswell's cracking 25-yard free-kick cleared the wall and beat
Foster, only for the ball to cannon off the foot of the post. Matt Jarvis
failed to make a decent connection with a near-post centre from Enner
Valencia, and Sessegnon dragged another shot wide in the closing stages.
With legs tiring after another hectic festive schedule, Silvestre Varela
almost bagged a dramatic winner in added time as his strike from the edge of
the box flicked off Collins and shaved the outside of the post with Adrian
struggling to reach.
Player ratings
West Ham: Adrian (6), Jenkinson (6), Collins (7), Reid (5), Cresswell (7),
Song (5), Amalfitano (5), Kouyate (5), Downing (6), Carroll (5), Sakho (6).
Used subs: Jarvis (5), Valencia (5), Cole (5)
West Brom: Foster (6), Wisdom (6), McAuley (6), Lescott (6), Baird (6),
Mulumbu (6), Brunt (6), Dorrans (6), Sessegnon (8), Morrison (6), Berahino
(7).
Used subs: Yacob (5), Varela (6), Ideye (5)
Man of the match: Stephane Sessegnon.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce blames busy schedule for 'flat' performance from West Ham
Last Updated: 01/01/15 7:58pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce thought his West Ham side gave everything but couldn't find a
winner in their 1-1 draw against West Brom. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce
insisted the hectic festive schedule had caught up with his players as they
were held to a 1-1 draw by lowly West Brom. The Hammers were favourites to
get back to winning ways after defeats to London rivals Chelsea and Arsenal
over Christmas, but they were unable to build on an 11th-minute opener from
Diafra Sakho - his ninth goal of the season.
Saido Berahino struck the equaliser three minutes before the break, and
Aaron Cresswell's free-kick against the post was the closest either side
came to a winner in a lacklustre second half.
"In terms of the players and where they are it was a big effort," Allardyce
said. "Our finishing quality was something that we wanted when we needed it
but we couldn't find it - but effort-wise it was a tremendous effort.
"When you fatigue like the lads are going to do, more mistakes happen and
that has to be accepted"
Sam Allardyce
"It would be nothing else other than a tired performance from both teams
today. When you fatigue like the lads are going to do, more mistakes happen
and that has to be accepted.
"Today it was about the result, not about the performance because the
performance was never going to be great. Never. Not after you have asked the
players to play a third time in six days - what we needed was to get the
result and, unfortunately, we didn't get it."
Chasing
Allardyce was also frustrated that his team got caught on the break for
Albion's equaliser, telling the club's website: "I think we went chasing the
second goal too much when we didn't need to.
"We over-extended ourselves when we didn't need to and allowed the
opposition a quick breakaway goal from a counter-attack. We left ourselves
two-on-two at the back and that's the last thing you do when you're winning.
"You might do it if you're 1-0 down with 10 minutes to go, but you don't do
it when you're 1-0 up and just coming to the end of the first half. It was
the fault of the full-backs and midfield players gallivanting forward and
over-committing to try and score another goal.
"That was the sad thing, because the result was the all-important thing for
us and we didn't get the win that we wanted. But I can't praise the players
enough for the effort they have put in over the last three games, even
though we've only got one point.
"I thought Aaron had won it for us with a super-duper free-kick that hit the
post. The other chances that fell to us, we unfortunately didn't find the
quality to finish West Brom off when, in all fairness, they were there for
the taking.
Point accepted
"We weren't quite ruthless or clinical enough to get the three points, but
one point is accepted and moves us forward after two defeats on the trot. We
get ready for Everton now and pick a team with what's available to us, with
the lads going off to the Africa Cup of Nations, and move on from there.
"It's a big FA Cup third-round tie on Tuesday night, which is a bit bizarre
and something I don't think I've done before, but it gives the lads time to
rest and recover and make sure we can put a team out to try to get through
to the next round."
Sakho had to be replaced after suffering a knock in a goalmouth scramble in
the second half, and his fitness will be assessed on Friday.
"We have to have a scan on it and see what condition his back is in,"
Allardyce added. "Obviously it's a similar situation to when he last came
back from Senegal, so on Friday the lads will send him for a scan and we'll
see how it goes from there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM 1, WEST BROM 1. A POINT THAT'S TOUGH TO RESPECT.
By David Hautzig 1 Jan 2015 at 18:45
West ham till I Die
I think social media has added an extra and welcome dimension to our game.
Allowing supporters to connect with each other almost instantaneously has
been as valuable to me as watching the matches on Fox and NBC. Our game is
far more about community and bonding than any American sport could ever hope
to be, and without things like Twitter and blogs I'd never have "met" Iain,
ExWHUEmployee, Hugh Southon, the folks at KUMB, or any of you. I've also
become friendly with supporters of some other clubs, one of which is West
Brom supporter @AndyfromNewHamp. I first got to know Andy through a daily
radio program over here hosted by Chelsea TV's Neil Barnett, former
Newcastle midfielder Ray Hudson and a few others. We've gone on air together
to preview matches between the two clubs, and we chat via Twitter regularly.
Which we did again yesterday.
Before television coverage over here became arguably better than in the UK,
it was brutally difficult to get any info on any club other than Manchester
United, Liverpool, and maybe Arsenal. So for an American, history is not
ingrained. It's learned. Not so for UK born and bred Andy, and I got a great
little lesson from him.
"Our clubs share a tradition of style over substance, of generating talent
from within. Geoff Hurst started his career as a Hammer and ended it as a
Baggie. But above all else both clubs were at the forefront in embracing
black footballers when racism was rampant. Your Hammers provided inspiration
with Best, Barnes and Coker. We followed suit a couple of years later with
the trio of Regis, Cunningham and yesterday's recipient of an MBE, Brendan
Batson. Our clubs may not have the silverware of more celebrated rivals, but
it can be argued no two clubs have had a great influence in opening the
doors to black players than the Baggies and the Hammers."
With what has happened here in the USA recently, hearing that gave me even
more reason to wear my now 20 year old jumper with pride.
Even sitting in the stands, I suspected Tony Pulis to have some kind of
impact on his new club. He beat us in his first game in charge of Crystal
Palace. Actually, if memory serves me, wasn't Roy Hodgson appointed West
Brom manager the day we overcame a 3-0 halftime deficit to draw them at The
Hawthorns? While that season was an absolute nightmare, the draw that day
wasn't half bad. I can't say I feel anything like that today.
I was waiting for the starting eleven with the hope that Valencia and Sakho
would lead the attack again. Pretty dumb of me, I guess. At least Amalfitano
kept his place.
Early yellow cards to important players will always cause uneasy feelings,
and those feelings were provided in the 4th minute when Kouyate made a
reckless challenge and brought down Sessegnon from behind. The free kick
didn't cause many problems, but the ball came back to Sessegnon giving him
room to make a run into the West Ham box and unleash a hard shot that was
blocked out by Collins. It was the first of many problems caused by
Sessegnon.
The first chance for West Ham showed some impressive movement with and
without the ball. The only thing missing was the final touch, and when
Downing and Cresswell combined for a nice one-two in the penalty area our
left back appeared to be pulled down by McAuley just as he shot. The attempt
went over the bar, and the referee ignored Cresswell's protests for a
penalty.
When West Ham have looked their best this season it has been the added pace
and skill of players like Sakho, Amalfitano and Cresswell that have made the
difference. Downing has basically been a new signing with his switch to the
top of a diamond formation, and he combined with the aforementioned three to
give West Ham the lead after ten minutes. Downing sent a chip to Amalfitano
at the top of the eighteen yard box. After quickly turning towards goal,
Amalfitano made a gorgeous pass with the outside of his right foot to
Cresswell on the left side of the box. His cross found Sakho doing what he
does best, running into a dangerous area to receive a pass and have a go at
goal. Pass received, ball in net. Simple.
West Ham 1, West Brom 0.
It could have, and maybe should have been 2-0 a few minutes later when Song
found Downing speeding down the left flank. Downing cut inside and beat
McAuley, but his angle was tight and his hard shot was well saved by Foster.
By the number of comments posted on virtually every article on this site,
it's plain to see that you all like to debate and discuss. Well, I want to
throw this out there right now. In the 16th minute, Cresswell sent in a long
cross that was obviously intended for Carroll. Foster came out to collect
the ball in his gloves before AC's skull had a chance, and that was that.
Here's my question. If it were Valencia out there with Sakho, would
Cresswell have even made that pass? Or would he have looked for a one-two
with a midfielder to get deeper and allow the strikers to run into areas? Or
something like that. Anything but a long cross into the box?
Sam recently said Adrian is as good a keeper as DeGea, and that he should be
challenging for a spot on the Spanish national team. Based on his save in
the 22nd minute I won't argue with him. After beating Song on the right
side, Mulumbu sent a cross to Baird on the edge of the box. The defender
took his shot straight out of the air and would have ripped the net if
Adrian hadn't gotten his left hand in the way.
From that moment on, until halftime, West Ham looked complacent. Unworried
that West Brom could hurt them. We gave up the ball in midfield and looked
like we didn't believe there could ever be any consequences. Sessegnon and
Wisdom combined in the 25th minute with a quick series of passes inside the
West Ham box before Sessegnon's shot went wide. Sessegnon then sent Brunt
down the left but his shot also went wide. Next came a free kick from Brunt
after Mulumbu was taken down by Song that didn't have enough hook or bend
and went wide. Add in an attempt by Morrison that curled over the bar and
you have a long stretch of West Brom dominance.
The inevitable finally happened in the 42nd minute after West Ham lost
possession for the 641st time in the half and led to a counter attack by
Sessegnon. He cut towards the box and found Berahino running at goal and he
side footed the equalizer behind Adrian. I'm guessing Sam will blame Collins
for backing off Sessegnon, and probably Reid for not marking Berahino. And
both of those accusations would be true. But those two mistakes were only a
small part in the larger picture that led to the goal.
West Ham 1, West Brom 1.
At halftime I took to Twitter as I usually do to gauge what the West Ham
faithful were saying. I wasn't surprised to see the majority calling for
Valencia to come in for Carroll, who simply had not been a factor in the
first half. If we all could see that Valencia's pace might be a better
option to Carroll as a target man against this particular defense, then the
13th highest paid manager in the world would see it as well, right?
There I go again, being silly. No changes to start the second half.
Early in the second half Downing found Sakho breaking into the box but our
leading scorer was called offside. Note to Teddy. Work on Sakho's timing on
runs a bit because he is called for offside quite a bit. A couple of crosses
later that Foster collected easily and it was all West Brom again. Berahino
got a little help from a deflection off Collins to force a good save from
Adrian, and then Mulumbu and Sessegnon combined on the right side but the
latter's shot hit the outside netting. With so much space in front of him
and so much time on the ball, it's a miracle Sessegnon didn't score or set
up two or three goals.
Over the summer there was a rumor that West Brom were interested in Matt
Jarvis. Remember him? Speedy winger who was supposed to be the best crosser
on the planet? Cost us a lot of dough? Yeah, that guy. Well, he came on for
Amalfitano in the 54th minute. The TV showed Pulis sending messages down to
the bench a lot during the game. I wonder if he sent one to Sam asking him
if he could have a look at that Jarvis fellow. A few minutes after entering
the game he did beat two West Brom defenders before sending a low cross into
the box. It was meant for Carroll, but it went to McAuley.
West Ham came inches away from taking the lead and possibly all three points
in the 59th minute after Mulumbu fouled Sakho outside of the box to earn the
Hammers a free kick. When Cresswell stood over it to take it I was
surprised. After his kick went off the post I see why he took it and hope
there is more from him like that in the future.
There were more than a few cynical Tweets today about Valencia coming on.
Sure he would, the Tweets said. But not for Carroll. The conspiracy
theorists promised it would be for Sakho. In the 70th minute, Downing
collected the ball on the right side of the West Brom penalty area. After a
few twists and turns he sent a low cross in for the onrushing Sakho, but the
striker couldn't get his feet on the ball and Foster smothered it. Sakho
stayed down, and seemed to tell Foster he was OK. But he got up slowly,
holding his lower back. The same part of his body that was assaulted by the
Senegal team physio. So even if Sam wanted to take Carroll off for Valencia,
he couldn't. I wonder how Sam felt about that.
Valencia showed what his pace can do in the 75th minute when Song sent a
probing ball down the right side. Valencia looked like he had a different
gear available than the West Brom defenders and ran onto it right before the
touchline. His cross found Jarvis running across the area but he couldn't
get more than a slight touch and the ball rolled comfortable to Foster. We
can only wonder what might have happened had Valencia at least come on
earlier.
After what can only be said was a non-descript performance, Carroll came off
in the 84th minute for Carlton Cole. I'd like to say more about that…but I
won't.
For the final five minutes of the second half and the four minutes of added
time, the only side that looked to have a second goal in them was West Brom.
Sessegnon had tons of space in front of him in the 89th minute but his shot
was poor. Then he and Morrison linked up well, ending in a pass towards
Varela that Reid was able to intercept.
Final Score. West Ham 1, West Brom 1.
Let's look at today in a vacuum, forgetting our strong start this season.
Are we so good that a loss/draw to a team like West Brom is a shameful
result? No. Are we a work in progress, in which there will be stretches
where we play out of our skin and others where we are dire? Yes. I'm not
happy, and I'm guessing many of you aren't either. We had a full squad
available to us today, and we were generally outplayed by West Brom. Some
may disagree, but I think Sam cost us points today. Despite being flagged
offside many times, Sakho's ability to get behind the Baggies back four was
our one tactical bright spot. A spot that would have been even brighter had
Valencia started alongside him instead of Carroll. My fear is that this will
begin a very tough stretch for us, with more frustrating results like we saw
today. And when the going gets tough for Sam, he digs his heels in and
retreats even further into the system he is most comfortable with. The
system we thought we had left in the bin.
I wonder what David Sullivan is thinking right about now.
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West Ham hamper fraud investigated by police
Manager Sam Allardyce and striker Andy Carroll among those 'targeted with
fake Fortnum & Mason hampers'
Telegraph
By Telegraph Sport10:02AM GMT 01 Jan 2015
Police are investigating a scam reportedly targeting players and staff at
West Ham United Football Club. The Sun reported on Thursday that both
striker Andy Carroll and manager Sam Allardyce had fallen prey to a
fraudster at the Premier League club's training ground in Essex in
mid-December. The con artist was offering cut-price Fortnum & Mason hampers
and Harrods champagne and the pair paid £11,000 but never saw the goods
delivered, according to the newspaper, which also said the fraudster took
£30,000 in total from players and staff and had also targeted Norwich City.
Police were informed on Christmas Eve and have now launched a probe into the
allegations. A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: "Newham officers
are investigating an allegation of fraud. This occurred on December 12 and
was reported to police on December 24. Inquiries continue and there has been
no arrest."
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AC and one other! We're going backwards Sam
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 1, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
This won't take long! We are going backwards – launching long and refusing
to play the most successful strike partnership we have seen at the club
since Cottee and McAvennie. Andy Carroll most certainly has a role to play
but not as a permanent fixture come hell or high water. Also we have been
told by the manager himself that with so many games coming in such a hurry
over Christmas and the New Year there needed to be some rotation…unless. it
seems, your name is Carroll! We have reached the point where it really is AC
and one other – some rotation policy that! It didn't work at Chelsea and it
didn't work today. Diafra Sakho is unquestionably Carroll's equal. Enner
Valencia has pace to burn and on his days is electric but the manager does
love his big man up front however unsuited – as was the case at Chelsea –
the tactic may be to the game conditions. These things are so self evident
they don't really need to be repeated but such is the obsession with AC
under the current manager we are forced to do so over and over again . The
result of the Carroll love-in is that we launch long and the 'to feet' game
which brought us all our early success is slowly disappearing unlike Carlton
Cole who Sam Allardyce admitted earlier this week is "one of my favourites."
That is pretty worrying and another example of the way things are going.
'Back to the Future' has been on the box about five times this Christmas.
Seems we are seeing another re-run at the Boleyn and it's nothing like as
entertaining!
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Noble looks to be the missing link
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 1, 2015 in Whispers
By Richard Oses
Bubbles Fanzine Editor
https://www.facebook.com/bubblesfanzine
Another disappointing afternoon has left everyone debating what has gone so
horribly wrong lately for the Hammers.
Much has been said and written about Sam Allardyce's tactics or squad
selection, Andy Carroll's form compared to Enner Valencia, Mauro Zarate
being shunned out of the squad instead of the likes of Carlton Cole and many
other theories and opinions.
All of these may have played their part as well as fatigue from a packed
Christmas fixture list and some bad luck from referee decisions going
against the team.
The Arsenal game was deserving of at least a point which can maybe act as
some sort of consolation for the fans. Likewise to ease the pain, no one
expected anything away to Chelsea.
However for me, over the entire Christmas period, there is one thing that
stands out over everything else and that is the absence of Mark Noble.
Since his return to the squad from injury, he has not featured in the first
team despite being a regular until injury sidelined him. Noble is a
workhorse who bleeds passion and desire.
Today's match against West Brom is a great example of why West Ham have
missed Noble's presence in the team. With some of the players feeling the
effects of playing so many games in such a short space of time and the
complacent attitude towards the opponents I believe Noble would have made a
huge difference.
A lot of players (and fans) seemed to think that three points were already
in the bag today. This was even more evident after Diafra Sakho's opener on
10 minutes.
The team took the foot off the pedal and let West Brom back into the game.
Even in the second half the players wlacked urgency and desire to kill the
game and bag all three points. Had Mark Noble been playing today he could
have been the driving force behind a West Ham win.
How many games this season has the team been in front and carried on with
the job in hand and killed the game off? Or for that matter when the side
have been losing and come back to win the game?
It is all to do with the attitude and desire on display and as foolhardy as
it would be to say that Noble is the only player that can muster the
required oomph to keep going, it is plain to see the difference when he
isn't in the team.
Yes, by all means we can point out the lack of the coveted Valencia-Sakho
partnership or the countless other things that have gone against us lately.
But if you want a nutshell explanation there is no need to look any further
than this: Should there have been a stronger desire and urgency in the last
two games – a draw would have been earned against Arsenal and a win would
have been rescued today against West Brom
And there is no better player at injecting the right mental attitude
required than Mr West Ham himself; Mark Noble.
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Carroll fury at Sun story
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 1, 2015 in Whispers
Claret 7 Hugh
Andy Carroll has rubbised the front page story in today's Sun in which the
downmarket tabloid claimed he had been at the centre of a Christmas con!
The paper said he and Sam Allardyce were tricked out of £11,000 when a
conman turned up at the training ground promising cut-price Fortnum & Mason
hampers and Harrods champers. T he pair allegedly paid £11,000 but the
conman did not deliver! However, Carroll has denied the incident happened
and wonders how the paper can away with writing such stuff tweeting his
feelings on the matter.
He tweeted: Don't know how @TheASunNewspaper can get away with making up
stories #MyMonyIsSafe
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Cameroon "make contact" with Song
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 1, 2015 in Whispers
Calret & Hugh
The Cameroon FA are keeping West Ham in the dark over the possible late
call-up of Alex Song for the African Nations Cup. But ClaretandHugh has
learned that contact has been made with the player and that there remains a
chance he will be called into his nation's squad. Rumours have been
circulating for several days that Cameroon bosses could do a big U turn and
turn to Song after omitting him from the original squad. And this morning we
made contact with a well placed Irons insider who confirmed that it remains
a live possibility.
He said: "They have been in touch with the player but beyond that we really
don't know whats going on. However, they can call him up right up to two
days before their first game. "Obviously we are keeping our fingers firmly
crossed but sadly the situation is entirely out of our hands and it's become
totally a waiting game."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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WHUFC.com
West Ham United had to settle for a point against West Bromwich Albion on
New Year's Day
01.01.2015
Barclays Premier League
West Ham United 1-1 West Bromwich Albion
West Ham United were held to a 1-1 Barclays Premier League draw at home to
struggling West Bromwich Albion on New Year's Day, as Saido Berahino's tidy
finish cancelled out Diafra Sakho's headed opener. The Hammers had looked to
be heading for a first win in three when Sakho stooped to nod home his
eighth league goal of the campaign after eleven minutes, but Berahino
rounded off an excellent Albion counter with a cool 42nd-minute finish.
Aaron Cresswell struck a post for the hosts, while Youssouf Mulumbu spurned
Albion's best chance of the half as Sam Allardyce's men were forced to
settle for a frustrating point at the Boleyn Ground.
Big Sam had earlier made just two changes to the side edged out by Arsenal
on Sunday, with Carl Jenkinson back in his familiar right-back berth and
James Collins drafted in for the suspended James Tomkins. Though the
Baggies gave as good as they got in the opening exchanges, West Ham were
soon into their stride and had a first sight of goal in the seventh minute.
It came courtesy of some lovely crisp football on the edge of the box, with
Cresswell fizzing it into Stewart Downing and then collecting a return ball
from Cheikhou Kouyate. Now in on goal, the full-back could not quite shake
off the attentions of Gareth McCauley whose intervention ensured the No3's
effort was a tame one.
If the first move was stylish, that which brought the goal four minutes
later was majestic. Downing's lofted pass was belatedly collected by Morgan
Amalfitano and the Frenchman, against his old club, slid a brilliant ball
inside the full-back into the path of Cresswell. Without breaking stride,
Cresswell whipped a first-time ball toward the near post, where Sakho
stooped to guide a header into the far corner.
With the newly-appointed Tony Pulis watching on from the stands, the Hammers
stepped on the gas and Downing ran menacingly at McCauley, before testing
Ben Foster in the Albion goal. At the other end, Adrian pulled off a
magnificent stop to deny Chris Baird midway through the half, as the
Spaniard dove to his left to repel a rocket of a volley from Mulumbu's
centre. Sessegnon should have done a great deal better when teed up by
Andre Wisdom, but screwed horribly wide of the near post. He would make
amends three minutes before the interval, as the architect of the visitors'
simple, but well-worked leveller. The Beninese man ran at Collins and as he
made his way into the box squared it for Berahino, whose first-time finish
into the right corner was unerring.
Adrian was called upon again four minutes after the restart, when Berahino's
low drive clipped Collins and required a smart stop from the Spaniard down
low to his right. They came closer still through Mulumbu moments later,
though having been played in by Sessegnon, he slammed an effort into the
side netting. As the hour-mark approached, West Brom had the woodwork to
thank for keeping the Hammers at bay. After Sakho had been felled, Cresswell
took charge of the set-piece and was so unlucky to see his curler thud back
off the right-hand upright, with Foster well beaten. Downing was next to try
his luck, with his trademark jink inside onto his left foot, though this
time his strike flew narrowly over the top.
With quarter-of-an-hour still to play, substitute Enner Valencia picked out
Jarvis from the right, but the former Wolverhampton Wanderers man failed to
connect properly with his right and Foster gathered. Carlton Cole joined the
fray late on, but it was the Baggies who had the better of the dying
minutes, with Silvestre Varela curling a right-footed strike a yard or two
wide of the far post.
West Ham United: Adrian, Jenkinson Collins, Reid, Cresswell, Song (c),
Amalfitano (Jarvis 60), Kouyate, Downing, Sakho (Valencia 72), Carroll (Cole
84)
Subs: Jaaskelainen, Nolan, Noble, O'Brien
Goal: Sakho 11
Booked: Kouyate
West Bromwich Albion: Foster, Wisdom, Baird, Lescott, McAuley, Mulumbu
(Yacob 66), Brunt, Sessegnon, Morrison, Dorrans (Varela 79), Berahino (Ideye
73)
Subs: Myhill, Gamboa, Dawson, Nabi
Goal: Berahino 42
Referee: Jonathan Moss
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'We weren't ruthless or clinical enough'
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce admitted his West Ham United team did not hit top gear against
West Bromwich Albion
01.01.2015
Sam Allardyce admitted his West Ham United team had not hit top gear as they
began 2015 with a 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion.
The Hammers looked to be on course for the happiest of New Years when Diafra
Sakho headed the hosts in front at the end of a flowing move on ten minutes
- his first goal in five appearances.
However, Albion gradually worked their way back into the game and, with West
Ham struggling with their own passing rhythm, Stephane Sessegnon and Saido
Berahino capped a counter-attack when the Benin international set up the
young forward for his ninth goal of the season.
A second half change in formation and personnel - Matt Jarvis replacing
former Baggie Morgan Amalfitano - saw the home side regain the ascendancy,
but the closest they came to a winner was when Aaron Cresswell's 25-yard
free-kick hit the post.
"I think we went chasing the second goal too much when we didn't need to,"
the manager observed. "It was a slower game because both sets of players
were fatigued after three games in six days, so if you take your using the
ball and be more patient, then don't over-extend yourselves.
"We over-extended ourselves when we didn't need to and allowed the
opposition a quick breakaway goal from a counter-attack. We left ourselves
two-on-two at the back and that's the last thing you do when you're winning.
"You might do it if you're 1-0 down with ten minutes to go, but you don't do
it when you're 1-0 up and just coming to the end of the first half. It
wasn't Ginge or Reidy's fault, but the fault of the full-backs and midfield
players gallivanting forward and over-committing to try and score another
goal.
"That was the sad thing, because the result was the all-important thing for
us and we didn't get the win that we wanted.
"I can't praise the players enough for the effort they have put in over the
last three games, even though we've only got one point.
"In the end it was disappointing we didn't win, because I thought Aaron had
won it for us with a super-duper free-kick that hit the post. The other
chances that fell to us, we unfortunately didn't find the quality to finish
West Brom off when, in all fairness, they were there for the taking.
"We weren't quite ruthless or clinical enough to get the three points, but
one point is accepted and moves us forward after two defeats on the trot. We
get ready for Everton now and pick a team with what's available to us, with
the lads going off to the African Nations Cup, and move on from there.
"It's a big FA Cup third-round tie on Tuesday night, which is a bit bizarre
and something I don't think I've done before, but it gives the lads time to
rest and recover and make sure we can put a team out to try to get through
to the next round."
West Ham's goal against West Brom was their one moment of outstanding
quality from open play, with a move involving Stewart Downing, Amalfitano
and Cresswell, ended with the left-back's cross being nodded in by a diving
Sakho.
Unfortunately, the Hammers could not replicate that fluency against a West
Brom team determined to impress watching new manager Tony Pulis. Big Sam
said that could be put down to the busy festive schedule taking its toll on
his players.
"When fatigue kicks in, more mistakes happen and that happened to both
sides. The crowd got frustrated, but they have to accept that these boys
have given everything they've got over the last three games and this one was
always going to be one where the energy levels would not be as high.
"That's three big games over Christmas and our points tally was very
disappointing in the end, but we have to accept that and try and bounce
back. "We've stopped the losing run with a draw and now we want to go to
Everton and get a winning run going again."
One worrying moment was the sight of goalscorer Sakho being led off with a
back injury following a goalmouth scramble midway through the second half.
Big Sam said the injury would be assessed on Friday. "We have to have a scan
on it and see what condition his back is in. Obviously it's a similar
situation to when he last came back from [international duty with] Senegal,
so on Friday the lads will send him for a scan and we'll see how it goes
from there."
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Downing - 'A point was fair'
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing was disappointed the Hammers did not make more of their
clash with West Brom
01.01.2015
Stewart Downing was disappointed to miss an opportunity to move back into
the Barclays Premier League top five on New Year's Day.
The Hammers suffered a frustrating start to the New Year when Saido Berahino
cancelled out Diafra Sakho's early opener, and Downing felt the team's
performance did not warrant the maximum reward. He said: "I think a point
was probably a fair result, but from our point of view it's disappointing.
"With our home form we wanted to get back to winning ways after Christmas,
but they made it difficult for us and on our part our final third ball was
disappointing. "It was a really good goal to put us 1-0 up. It was a good
move and we felt we could kick on after getting the early goal. We sat back
a little bit, got sloppy and got caught on the counter attack, which we said
before the game we didn't want to do because they've got quality players.
"They made it difficult for us and it's just disappointing because I
expected us to get three points on Thursday."
That expectation is something the Hammers have to get used to after their
stunning start to the season, according to Downing. He added: "The standard
we've set, with the teams we've beaten at home, means people expect you to
win these kind of games. Obviously it doesn't work like that, they're
fighting for their lives and a new manager coming in has given them a
gee-up. "We didn't capitalise, if we had kicked on after the goal, pressed
them and gone for the second goal we might have closed the game out. But
when it's 1-0 they've always got a chance. "Teams are catching us up and for
us we need to get back to how we've been doing. We had a few half chances to
nick it, but we've got Everton in the Cup before Swansea. We've beaten them
already in the league so we're looking to get back to winning ways."
Downing is looking forward to taking on Everton in the FA Cup, with progress
deep in that competition at the forefront of his mind. He explained: "It's a
big game for us on Tuesday. Everyone wants to do well and progress and we'll
have a couple of days rest before getting back to normal week-to-week
football. "I'm not sure if it's a good time to be playing them. Everton is
always a difficult place to go, no matter how they're doing. They play some
great football and it's only one result around the corner rom them kicking
on and we don't want to be that team. "We were unlucky in the league there
so we owe them one."
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West Ham 1 West Brom 1
1 January 2015
Last updated at 19:58
By Saj Chowdhury
BBC Sport
New manager Tony Pulis watched West Brom produce a gutsy performance to pick
up a deserved point at West Ham. Despite taking a seat in the stands, Pulis
appeared to relay instructions to the players and also visited the dressing
room at half-time. His new side conceded in the 10th minute when Diafra
Sakho headed in Aaron Cresswell's left-wing cross. Saido Berahino levelled
just before the break when he converted Stephane Sessegnon's cross from 10
yards. West Brom stay a point clear of the relegation zone in 17th while
West Ham drop to seventh, after Tottenham defeated Chelsea 5-3 in the
evening fixture.. Hammers manager Sam Allardyce said he was wary that West
Brom's players would raise their levels in order to impress their new
manager and they certainly played positively. The defence showed the sort of
resilience associated with Pulis sides, with Gareth McAuley and Joleon
Lescott keeping the in-form Andy Carroll quiet.
At the other end, most attacks went through Beninese midfielder Sessegnon,
who combined pace with intelligent play in the final third to give the
Hammers backline a tough workout. It was the home side, on the back of two
defeats, who started the brightest and took the lead when striker Sakho
scored as he charged in to meet Cresswell's cross. It was the Senegal
international's fifth headed goal in the Premier League this season. Instead
of crumbling, the Baggies regrouped and were unfortunate not to equalise
when Chris Baird's instinctive toe-poked volley was brilliantly saved by
Adrian.
They did beat the Spanish keeper with the move of the match. Straight from a
West Ham set-piece in their own area, the Baggies broke with Berahino
feeding Sessegnon who returned the ball with a precise square pass, which
was converted with a calm finish. After the break, Albion's technical
director Terry Burton and Dave Kemp, Pulis's former assistant at Stoke and
Crystal Palace, were sent to the bench by the new manager with instructions
for assistants Rob Kelly and Keith Downing. Pulis need not have worried too
much because, aside from a Cresswell free-kick against the foot of the post,
the Hammers rarely worried West Brom keeper Ben Foster. In fact, it could
have been all three points in his first match had Berahino's shot caught a
big enough deflection off James Collins to beat Adrian. Pulis's first match
on the bench will be an FA Cup third-round tie against Gateshead, before his
side are at home to fellow strugglers Hull.
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce: "In terms of the players and where they are
it was a big effort. "It would be nothing else other than a tired
performance from both teams today. When you fatigue like the lads are going
to do, more mistakes happen and that has to be accepted. "Today it was about
the result, not about the performance because the performance was never
going to be great. Never. Not after you have asked the players to play a
third time in six days - what we needed was to get the result and,
unfortunately, we didn't get it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Exposing the long ball myth?
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 1st January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Andy Carroll's return to the first team has increased West Ham's use of the
'long ball' - although not by as much as you might imagine.
Prior to the Christmas programme, KUMB published a table showing how
frequently the long ball was being used, in the wake of constant claims that
Sam Allardyce's team was still as direct as before.
A popular view is that the return of Andy Carroll to the starting XI has
seen increased use of long, direct passes to the front man - and as our
table illustrates, of West Ham's 20 Premier League games so far this season
Carroll appears in all but two of of the top ten games in which the long
ball has been most employed.
Yet only once this season have more than a quarter of West Ham's passes been
of the long variety - and that was in the 2-1 win against Manchester City,
when Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia were the chosen front two.
To give an indication of whether Carroll's return had seen a return to more
direct football, we've updated our chart to include all games leading up to
and including today's 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion.
And although the evidence suggests the team are slightly more inclined to go
direct with Carroll in the team, the difference is negligible - which goes
some way to exposing the myth that West Ham with Carroll have just one way
of playing.
West Ham United: long passes this season
(total passes in parenthesis)
1. Sakho & Valencia v Man City (h): 70 (239) 29.3%
2. Carroll v Chelsea (a): 72 (300) 24.0%
3. Carroll & Sakho v Leicester (h): 78 (347) 22.5%
4. Carroll & Zarate v West Brom (a): 80 (362) 22.1%
5. Valencia v Stoke (a): 64 (307) 20.8%
6. Carroll & Cole v Everton (a): 69 (340) 20.3%
7. Carroll & Valencia v Swansea (h): 81 (405) 20.0%
8. Carroll & Sakho v Arsenal (h): 76 (385) 19.7%
9. Cole & Vaz Te v Southampton (h): 63 (337) 18.7%
10. Carroll v Newcastle (h): 68 (367) 18.5%
11. Carroll & Sakho v Sunderland (a): 61 (334) 18.3%
12. Sakho & Valencia v Liverpool (h): 50 (276) 18.1%
13. Sakho & Valencia v Queens Park Rangers (h): 72 (402) 17.9%
14. Sakho & Valencia v Burnley (a): 75 (425) 17.6%
15. Carroll & Sakho v West Brom (h): 68 (396) 17.2%
16. Sakho & Valencia v Aston Villa (h): 68 (431) 15.8%
17. Cole & Vaz Te v Tottenham (h): 65 (414) 15.7%
18. Cole & Vaz Te v Crystal Palace (a): 69 (454) 15.2%
19. Sakho & Valencia v Man Utd (a): 50 (351) 14.3%
20. Sakho & Valencia v Hull (a): 55 (478) 11.5%
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to miss Sakho, Kouyate and Song for FA Cup tie
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 1st January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce has confirmed that he will be without all three of his
prospective AFCON players when West Ham travel to Everton for the 3rd round
of the FA Cup on Tuesday evening.
Cheik Kouyate and Diafra Sakho are both set to feature for Senegal in the
tournament, which begins in a fortnight's time, whilst Alex Song may yet
resolve his differences with Cameroon manager Volker Finke and feature for
his country.
However none will be available for the trip to Goodison Park on Tuesday
evening, as confirmed by Allardyce in his post-match press conference this
evening.
When asked whether Song would be going, Big Sam replied: "I don't know, is
the answer to that. Alex is having his own conversation with the manager of
Cameroon and they'll decide between them.
"It's not our decision - we've got no rights over Alex in terms of whether
he goes or doesn't go."
There is also some doubt as to whether Sakho will now be going, after he was
substituted with what appeared to be a re-occurrence of the back injury
which kept him out of action earlier in the season.
When asked to clarify the situation, Allardyce answered: "We don't know
until we assess the back injury he came off with today. That will have to be
scanned tomorrow and we'll see what the extent of the damage is."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mauro Zarate move to QPR in doubt
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 1st January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Mauro Zarate's loan switch to Queens Park Rangers could be OFF, according to
Rs boss Harry Redknapp. Redknapp, who watched his side draw 1-1 with Swansea
this afternoon was asked about the delay with the transfer, which some
sources had claimed was a done deal as early as last weekend, in his
post-match press conference tonight. "I'm not sure [what the situation is],"
he replied. "We'll wait and see what happens. We'll have to look at it and
see where we go." And when pushed for a definitive answer on whether Zarate
would be joining Rangers, he replied simply: "Maybe. I'm not sure."
Rumours that emerged on the KUMB forum this morning prior to Redknapp
commenting suggested that the delay was due to a failed medical, although
this remains unsubstantiated. Either way, Zarate is currently in limbo
having burnt his bridges with Sam Allardyce last week.
Speaking via his brother, the 27-year-old Argentine had insisted the reason
he hadn't featured more often was because his arrival at West Ham had been
engineered by Chairman David Sullivan, not Allardyce.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce on... West Bromwich Albion
KUMb.com
Filed: Thursday, 1st January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce was as frustrated as the rest of us at his team's inability to
break down a stubborn West Brom. Hear what the boss had to say in his
post-match press conference, exclusively in full here...
Sam: what did you make of that performance?
In terms of the players and where they are - it was their third game in six
days - it was a big effort. The effort was there to try and break down a
stubborn West Brom defence in the end. When we went one-nil up we didn't
need to start being over-adventurous, but that's exactly what we carried on
doing and we paid the price for that.
West Brom weren't offering a lot but we left the back door open on the
counter attack. Then we had to go and break a more stubborn defensive unit
down once they'd got back to one-one and we found that difficult to do in
the end. I though Aaron Cresswell had done it with one fantastic free kick.
It looked a goal all-ends-up, it fooled the 'keeper but unfortunately it hit
the post and came out.
Our finishing quality was something we needed to finish West Brom off, but
we couldn't find it today. Effort-wise it was a tremedous effort from the
players, giving everything they'd got but it wasn't quite good enough in the
final third to finish West Brom off.
Was it a tired performance after that recent run?
We've put so much effort into the last three games that it'd be nothing else
but a tired performance from both teams today. It was always going to be a
lower temo game, having played three games in six days and that's why we
needed to be a little more patient, take a litle bit more care of the ball.
But when you're fatigued, like the lads are definitely going to be at this
stage of the season, playing that many games in a short space of time,
mistakes are going to happen. That has to be accepted, when players are
asked to go again and again and again three times in six days - more
mistakes will occur.
We just needed to find a little bit more quality in the final third but
couldn't find it today. Whislt we got in front with a very good goal - a top
quality finish from Diaf and a quality cross - we couldn't find that quality
again to break West Brom down.
Was it a worry with their new manager in the stands? Do the players find
that extra yard?
Yes and no, but I didn't think there was a lot there, a lot of adventure
from West Brom today. We're facing more and more of this type of defensive
solidarity from the opposition that we have to break down on the basis of
how much we've achieved this year. Today we couldn't find enough quality to
break that down after it went to one-one.
We did find enough quality to get us one-nil in front and for me the players
should have focused on keeping a clean sheet. Once we'd got one-nil up we'd
won the game by then. Today was about the result, not the performance
because the performance was never going to be great today. Never. Not when
you ask the players to play three games in six days. We needed to get a
result, but unfortunately we didn't get it.
Can you just clear up the situation with Alex Song? Is he now not going to
the AFCON?
We don't know until we assess the back injury he came off with today. That
will have to be scanned tomorrow and we'll see what the extent of the damage
is.
Sorry - I thought you meant Diafra Sakho. Song, Sakho... [laughs] I don't
know, is the answer to that. Alex is having his own conversation with the
manager of Cameroon and they'll decide between them. Not us, it's not our
decision - we've got no rights over Alex in terms of whether he goes or
doesn't go.
The two Senegal players - will they be available for the Everton game?
No. Neither will Alex. Happy new year, lads.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kelly on... West Ham United
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 1st January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Rob Kelly faced the press on behalf of West Brom in tonight's post-match
press conference for the first and last time, with new man Tony Pulis
waiting in the wings and dipping into the dressing room...
Rob: A good point, do you feel?
Yes, I felt it was. In the end it could have gone either way; they've hit
the post and we've had a couple of good opportunities late on but I thought
we deserved to get something out of the game, overall.
Everyone was talking about the Tony Pulis effect; how much input did he have
today?
I'm sure it had an effect. He introduced himself this morning to the players
and popped in at half time and said one or two things. He came in at the end
of the game but he's let myself, Keith and Dean get on with the preparation
and organisation. As I said the other day, anyone who knows Alan knows how
well organised and planned he is.
We'd spoken about the group of games as a whole. We had an outline, but that
can change a little bit as there's a lot of games in a short period of time
and people pick up bumps, knocks and bruises. We'd gone through it all with
Alan [Irvine] and we did most of the work there. Then we spoke about the
team that we were thinking of playing. So a lot of it was done and Tony and
David Kemp let us get on with the preparation and organisation side.
We saw David come down into the dugout in the second half before a
substitution?
He just came up with one or two suggestions, that was it.
Do you think the quick appointment helped the players?
I don't know, you'd have to ask them that.
What were the suggestions at half time?
Well they were football suggestions in the dressing room, so that's dressing
room-type stuff.
Considering where West Ham are in the table, how much of a lift will that
give everyone?
I think it will. They're a top six side, West Ham and they've built and
built. Sam and his staff have done a fantastic job here to keep moving it
on. It's a difficult place to come. We played them a month ago and they beat
us at our place. We played well in the second half. But when you come to
somewhere like this to go away with something is pleasing. We're pleased we
got something.
Morale must have been affected by the events of the past few days. Can you
tell us how Tony's appointment affected the players today?
You'd have to ask them that. It was brief, me and the staff were told this
morning. He introduced himself to the players and we got on with it. They're
very professional so the preparation was done before hand. They were
organised...
But what changes did you see, being in the dressing room?
I saw what I see every week, really - a group of footballers, focused
professionals determined to do well. I can't look inside their heads, I
don't know what they're thinking. Were they any more fired up? I didn't see
that , but you'd have to ask them. They're individuals, they're human beings
so yuo'd have to ask them.
It was a bit of an odd game in the sense that for 20 minutes West Ham seemed
to be on top, but then they seemed to stop playing and you came into the
game. Any explanation for why that happened?
Obviously the goal rocked us but we recovered quite quickly. We set up the
way we were going to play and the way we thought West Ham would play. We've
worked for the last couple of days on that, although we've not been able to
do loads and loads. Like West Ham and everybody else, we're playing a lot of
games in a short period of time and it all unfolded that way.
We felt as long as we stayed - even at 1-0, as long as we didn't concede
another one - that [we were still in the game]. We've got good players and
as long as we did what we were capable of doing, we are capable of giving
any team a problem. That's how it unfolded. There's never a bad time to scoe
a goal, but obviously the equaliser helped. We created a couple of good
chancecs before that, so we stuck at it.
Among those good players is Saido Berahino; how important is it that the
club resist whatever interest there may be out there?
He's a promising young player and the game isn't littered with them - an
English striker who scores goals. He's obviously a big asset to the club.
What does this team need to do to get back up the table and to safety, which
is obviously the aim?
I think they've got to keep doing a lot of what they've been doing. It's
been little small things - and eventually small things make big things. In
the last couple of games we've had people uncharacteristically make
individual erros - which you get in a period of time during the season. Ours
have sort of collated, all in a number of games - but there's not a great
deal wrong.
They've got to stick with and believe what they do. The club had a big
change in the summer, a lot of players - 13 or 14 out, and 10 or 11 in.
Whatever you say, that does take some time to bed in and bring to fruition.
Everyone wants it now, they want it today which we all understand but it was
always going to take a little bit of time. You can't have that sort of
chance and it all just automatically happen - or very rarely. It was always
going to need a bit of time.
Was the decision to start with Sessegnon taken by yourself?
Myself, Keith and Dean. Alan [Irvine] had already spoke about the games he'd
play, or Brown Ideye. Sess has probably done a little bit more than we'd
planned but he's been great and just got on with it.
Anyone who knows Alan knows how well he's organised structurally and on the
football front. We'd planned it as best we could but we can't look into the
future and say 'he'll definitely play', becasue you're going to pick up
bumps and bruises. Generally the outline was there with Saido earmarked to
play in this one.
He took his goal well?
He did take his goal well. He's a good finisher.
Did Tony say anything in the dressing room after? Did he congratulate the
players, or..?
I'm here. I've come to sort it out pretty quick, so...
Thank you, gentlemen.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Brom end run of three defeats with 1-1 draw at West Ham as Tony Pulis
watches on
Last Updated: 01/01/15 6:49pm
SSN
Tony Pulis watched from the stands as his new West Bromwich Albion team
earned a battling 1-1 draw with West Ham United at Upton Park.
Saido Berahino struck just before half-time to cancel out an early opener
from Diafra Sakho in an entertaining first period, while Aaron Cresswell's
thundering free-kick against the post was a rare highlight in the second.
With Pulis set to take charge of the first team for Saturday's FA Cup tie
with Gateshead, Albion turned in an impressive performance that ended a run
of three consecutive defeats, although they have won only one of their last
10 matches. The visitors were the better team in the early stages, with
Stephane Sessegnon in particular pulling the strings in midfield from the
outset. The Benin international had a shot well blocked by James Collins
after the first of many incisive, driving runs, while Cresswell stabbed
tamely at Ben Foster as West Ham began to atone for a sluggish start.
Sucker punch
The Hammers barely got out of their own half in the first 10 minutes, but
they still managed to take the lead in the 11th minute as Cresswell whipped
in a superb first-time cross from the left for an unmarked Sakho to glance
past Foster from close range. Stewart Downing's deflected shot was blocked
by Foster before the Baggies almost levelled when Youssuf Mulumbu's cross to
the far post was met by a cracking first-time volley from Chris Baird, but
Adrian pulled off a smart reaction save to keep his side in front. Sessegnon
scuffed wide and Chris Brunt hooked inches past the upright as Albion
continued to press, while James Morrison's curling effort sailed narrowly
over the bar. But three minutes before the break, West Brom were rewarded
for their attacking intent as Sessegnon sauntered down the left from a
flowing counter-attack and crossed low for Berahino, who side-footed calmly
past Adrian from 10 yards.
Close shaves
Berahino came close to doubling his tally five minutes after the interval,
when his shot took a wild deflection off Collins and was beaten away at full
stretch by Adrian. Mulumbu blazed into the side-netting from another neat
lay-off by Sessegnon, but it was West Ham who came closest to another goal
when Cresswell's cracking 25-yard free-kick cleared the wall and beat
Foster, only for the ball to cannon off the foot of the post. Matt Jarvis
failed to make a decent connection with a near-post centre from Enner
Valencia, and Sessegnon dragged another shot wide in the closing stages.
With legs tiring after another hectic festive schedule, Silvestre Varela
almost bagged a dramatic winner in added time as his strike from the edge of
the box flicked off Collins and shaved the outside of the post with Adrian
struggling to reach.
Player ratings
West Ham: Adrian (6), Jenkinson (6), Collins (7), Reid (5), Cresswell (7),
Song (5), Amalfitano (5), Kouyate (5), Downing (6), Carroll (5), Sakho (6).
Used subs: Jarvis (5), Valencia (5), Cole (5)
West Brom: Foster (6), Wisdom (6), McAuley (6), Lescott (6), Baird (6),
Mulumbu (6), Brunt (6), Dorrans (6), Sessegnon (8), Morrison (6), Berahino
(7).
Used subs: Yacob (5), Varela (6), Ideye (5)
Man of the match: Stephane Sessegnon.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce blames busy schedule for 'flat' performance from West Ham
Last Updated: 01/01/15 7:58pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce thought his West Ham side gave everything but couldn't find a
winner in their 1-1 draw against West Brom. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce
insisted the hectic festive schedule had caught up with his players as they
were held to a 1-1 draw by lowly West Brom. The Hammers were favourites to
get back to winning ways after defeats to London rivals Chelsea and Arsenal
over Christmas, but they were unable to build on an 11th-minute opener from
Diafra Sakho - his ninth goal of the season.
Saido Berahino struck the equaliser three minutes before the break, and
Aaron Cresswell's free-kick against the post was the closest either side
came to a winner in a lacklustre second half.
"In terms of the players and where they are it was a big effort," Allardyce
said. "Our finishing quality was something that we wanted when we needed it
but we couldn't find it - but effort-wise it was a tremendous effort.
"When you fatigue like the lads are going to do, more mistakes happen and
that has to be accepted"
Sam Allardyce
"It would be nothing else other than a tired performance from both teams
today. When you fatigue like the lads are going to do, more mistakes happen
and that has to be accepted.
"Today it was about the result, not about the performance because the
performance was never going to be great. Never. Not after you have asked the
players to play a third time in six days - what we needed was to get the
result and, unfortunately, we didn't get it."
Chasing
Allardyce was also frustrated that his team got caught on the break for
Albion's equaliser, telling the club's website: "I think we went chasing the
second goal too much when we didn't need to.
"We over-extended ourselves when we didn't need to and allowed the
opposition a quick breakaway goal from a counter-attack. We left ourselves
two-on-two at the back and that's the last thing you do when you're winning.
"You might do it if you're 1-0 down with 10 minutes to go, but you don't do
it when you're 1-0 up and just coming to the end of the first half. It was
the fault of the full-backs and midfield players gallivanting forward and
over-committing to try and score another goal.
"That was the sad thing, because the result was the all-important thing for
us and we didn't get the win that we wanted. But I can't praise the players
enough for the effort they have put in over the last three games, even
though we've only got one point.
"I thought Aaron had won it for us with a super-duper free-kick that hit the
post. The other chances that fell to us, we unfortunately didn't find the
quality to finish West Brom off when, in all fairness, they were there for
the taking.
Point accepted
"We weren't quite ruthless or clinical enough to get the three points, but
one point is accepted and moves us forward after two defeats on the trot. We
get ready for Everton now and pick a team with what's available to us, with
the lads going off to the Africa Cup of Nations, and move on from there.
"It's a big FA Cup third-round tie on Tuesday night, which is a bit bizarre
and something I don't think I've done before, but it gives the lads time to
rest and recover and make sure we can put a team out to try to get through
to the next round."
Sakho had to be replaced after suffering a knock in a goalmouth scramble in
the second half, and his fitness will be assessed on Friday.
"We have to have a scan on it and see what condition his back is in,"
Allardyce added. "Obviously it's a similar situation to when he last came
back from Senegal, so on Friday the lads will send him for a scan and we'll
see how it goes from there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM 1, WEST BROM 1. A POINT THAT'S TOUGH TO RESPECT.
By David Hautzig 1 Jan 2015 at 18:45
West ham till I Die
I think social media has added an extra and welcome dimension to our game.
Allowing supporters to connect with each other almost instantaneously has
been as valuable to me as watching the matches on Fox and NBC. Our game is
far more about community and bonding than any American sport could ever hope
to be, and without things like Twitter and blogs I'd never have "met" Iain,
ExWHUEmployee, Hugh Southon, the folks at KUMB, or any of you. I've also
become friendly with supporters of some other clubs, one of which is West
Brom supporter @AndyfromNewHamp. I first got to know Andy through a daily
radio program over here hosted by Chelsea TV's Neil Barnett, former
Newcastle midfielder Ray Hudson and a few others. We've gone on air together
to preview matches between the two clubs, and we chat via Twitter regularly.
Which we did again yesterday.
Before television coverage over here became arguably better than in the UK,
it was brutally difficult to get any info on any club other than Manchester
United, Liverpool, and maybe Arsenal. So for an American, history is not
ingrained. It's learned. Not so for UK born and bred Andy, and I got a great
little lesson from him.
"Our clubs share a tradition of style over substance, of generating talent
from within. Geoff Hurst started his career as a Hammer and ended it as a
Baggie. But above all else both clubs were at the forefront in embracing
black footballers when racism was rampant. Your Hammers provided inspiration
with Best, Barnes and Coker. We followed suit a couple of years later with
the trio of Regis, Cunningham and yesterday's recipient of an MBE, Brendan
Batson. Our clubs may not have the silverware of more celebrated rivals, but
it can be argued no two clubs have had a great influence in opening the
doors to black players than the Baggies and the Hammers."
With what has happened here in the USA recently, hearing that gave me even
more reason to wear my now 20 year old jumper with pride.
Even sitting in the stands, I suspected Tony Pulis to have some kind of
impact on his new club. He beat us in his first game in charge of Crystal
Palace. Actually, if memory serves me, wasn't Roy Hodgson appointed West
Brom manager the day we overcame a 3-0 halftime deficit to draw them at The
Hawthorns? While that season was an absolute nightmare, the draw that day
wasn't half bad. I can't say I feel anything like that today.
I was waiting for the starting eleven with the hope that Valencia and Sakho
would lead the attack again. Pretty dumb of me, I guess. At least Amalfitano
kept his place.
Early yellow cards to important players will always cause uneasy feelings,
and those feelings were provided in the 4th minute when Kouyate made a
reckless challenge and brought down Sessegnon from behind. The free kick
didn't cause many problems, but the ball came back to Sessegnon giving him
room to make a run into the West Ham box and unleash a hard shot that was
blocked out by Collins. It was the first of many problems caused by
Sessegnon.
The first chance for West Ham showed some impressive movement with and
without the ball. The only thing missing was the final touch, and when
Downing and Cresswell combined for a nice one-two in the penalty area our
left back appeared to be pulled down by McAuley just as he shot. The attempt
went over the bar, and the referee ignored Cresswell's protests for a
penalty.
When West Ham have looked their best this season it has been the added pace
and skill of players like Sakho, Amalfitano and Cresswell that have made the
difference. Downing has basically been a new signing with his switch to the
top of a diamond formation, and he combined with the aforementioned three to
give West Ham the lead after ten minutes. Downing sent a chip to Amalfitano
at the top of the eighteen yard box. After quickly turning towards goal,
Amalfitano made a gorgeous pass with the outside of his right foot to
Cresswell on the left side of the box. His cross found Sakho doing what he
does best, running into a dangerous area to receive a pass and have a go at
goal. Pass received, ball in net. Simple.
West Ham 1, West Brom 0.
It could have, and maybe should have been 2-0 a few minutes later when Song
found Downing speeding down the left flank. Downing cut inside and beat
McAuley, but his angle was tight and his hard shot was well saved by Foster.
By the number of comments posted on virtually every article on this site,
it's plain to see that you all like to debate and discuss. Well, I want to
throw this out there right now. In the 16th minute, Cresswell sent in a long
cross that was obviously intended for Carroll. Foster came out to collect
the ball in his gloves before AC's skull had a chance, and that was that.
Here's my question. If it were Valencia out there with Sakho, would
Cresswell have even made that pass? Or would he have looked for a one-two
with a midfielder to get deeper and allow the strikers to run into areas? Or
something like that. Anything but a long cross into the box?
Sam recently said Adrian is as good a keeper as DeGea, and that he should be
challenging for a spot on the Spanish national team. Based on his save in
the 22nd minute I won't argue with him. After beating Song on the right
side, Mulumbu sent a cross to Baird on the edge of the box. The defender
took his shot straight out of the air and would have ripped the net if
Adrian hadn't gotten his left hand in the way.
From that moment on, until halftime, West Ham looked complacent. Unworried
that West Brom could hurt them. We gave up the ball in midfield and looked
like we didn't believe there could ever be any consequences. Sessegnon and
Wisdom combined in the 25th minute with a quick series of passes inside the
West Ham box before Sessegnon's shot went wide. Sessegnon then sent Brunt
down the left but his shot also went wide. Next came a free kick from Brunt
after Mulumbu was taken down by Song that didn't have enough hook or bend
and went wide. Add in an attempt by Morrison that curled over the bar and
you have a long stretch of West Brom dominance.
The inevitable finally happened in the 42nd minute after West Ham lost
possession for the 641st time in the half and led to a counter attack by
Sessegnon. He cut towards the box and found Berahino running at goal and he
side footed the equalizer behind Adrian. I'm guessing Sam will blame Collins
for backing off Sessegnon, and probably Reid for not marking Berahino. And
both of those accusations would be true. But those two mistakes were only a
small part in the larger picture that led to the goal.
West Ham 1, West Brom 1.
At halftime I took to Twitter as I usually do to gauge what the West Ham
faithful were saying. I wasn't surprised to see the majority calling for
Valencia to come in for Carroll, who simply had not been a factor in the
first half. If we all could see that Valencia's pace might be a better
option to Carroll as a target man against this particular defense, then the
13th highest paid manager in the world would see it as well, right?
There I go again, being silly. No changes to start the second half.
Early in the second half Downing found Sakho breaking into the box but our
leading scorer was called offside. Note to Teddy. Work on Sakho's timing on
runs a bit because he is called for offside quite a bit. A couple of crosses
later that Foster collected easily and it was all West Brom again. Berahino
got a little help from a deflection off Collins to force a good save from
Adrian, and then Mulumbu and Sessegnon combined on the right side but the
latter's shot hit the outside netting. With so much space in front of him
and so much time on the ball, it's a miracle Sessegnon didn't score or set
up two or three goals.
Over the summer there was a rumor that West Brom were interested in Matt
Jarvis. Remember him? Speedy winger who was supposed to be the best crosser
on the planet? Cost us a lot of dough? Yeah, that guy. Well, he came on for
Amalfitano in the 54th minute. The TV showed Pulis sending messages down to
the bench a lot during the game. I wonder if he sent one to Sam asking him
if he could have a look at that Jarvis fellow. A few minutes after entering
the game he did beat two West Brom defenders before sending a low cross into
the box. It was meant for Carroll, but it went to McAuley.
West Ham came inches away from taking the lead and possibly all three points
in the 59th minute after Mulumbu fouled Sakho outside of the box to earn the
Hammers a free kick. When Cresswell stood over it to take it I was
surprised. After his kick went off the post I see why he took it and hope
there is more from him like that in the future.
There were more than a few cynical Tweets today about Valencia coming on.
Sure he would, the Tweets said. But not for Carroll. The conspiracy
theorists promised it would be for Sakho. In the 70th minute, Downing
collected the ball on the right side of the West Brom penalty area. After a
few twists and turns he sent a low cross in for the onrushing Sakho, but the
striker couldn't get his feet on the ball and Foster smothered it. Sakho
stayed down, and seemed to tell Foster he was OK. But he got up slowly,
holding his lower back. The same part of his body that was assaulted by the
Senegal team physio. So even if Sam wanted to take Carroll off for Valencia,
he couldn't. I wonder how Sam felt about that.
Valencia showed what his pace can do in the 75th minute when Song sent a
probing ball down the right side. Valencia looked like he had a different
gear available than the West Brom defenders and ran onto it right before the
touchline. His cross found Jarvis running across the area but he couldn't
get more than a slight touch and the ball rolled comfortable to Foster. We
can only wonder what might have happened had Valencia at least come on
earlier.
After what can only be said was a non-descript performance, Carroll came off
in the 84th minute for Carlton Cole. I'd like to say more about that…but I
won't.
For the final five minutes of the second half and the four minutes of added
time, the only side that looked to have a second goal in them was West Brom.
Sessegnon had tons of space in front of him in the 89th minute but his shot
was poor. Then he and Morrison linked up well, ending in a pass towards
Varela that Reid was able to intercept.
Final Score. West Ham 1, West Brom 1.
Let's look at today in a vacuum, forgetting our strong start this season.
Are we so good that a loss/draw to a team like West Brom is a shameful
result? No. Are we a work in progress, in which there will be stretches
where we play out of our skin and others where we are dire? Yes. I'm not
happy, and I'm guessing many of you aren't either. We had a full squad
available to us today, and we were generally outplayed by West Brom. Some
may disagree, but I think Sam cost us points today. Despite being flagged
offside many times, Sakho's ability to get behind the Baggies back four was
our one tactical bright spot. A spot that would have been even brighter had
Valencia started alongside him instead of Carroll. My fear is that this will
begin a very tough stretch for us, with more frustrating results like we saw
today. And when the going gets tough for Sam, he digs his heels in and
retreats even further into the system he is most comfortable with. The
system we thought we had left in the bin.
I wonder what David Sullivan is thinking right about now.
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West Ham hamper fraud investigated by police
Manager Sam Allardyce and striker Andy Carroll among those 'targeted with
fake Fortnum & Mason hampers'
Telegraph
By Telegraph Sport10:02AM GMT 01 Jan 2015
Police are investigating a scam reportedly targeting players and staff at
West Ham United Football Club. The Sun reported on Thursday that both
striker Andy Carroll and manager Sam Allardyce had fallen prey to a
fraudster at the Premier League club's training ground in Essex in
mid-December. The con artist was offering cut-price Fortnum & Mason hampers
and Harrods champagne and the pair paid £11,000 but never saw the goods
delivered, according to the newspaper, which also said the fraudster took
£30,000 in total from players and staff and had also targeted Norwich City.
Police were informed on Christmas Eve and have now launched a probe into the
allegations. A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: "Newham officers
are investigating an allegation of fraud. This occurred on December 12 and
was reported to police on December 24. Inquiries continue and there has been
no arrest."
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AC and one other! We're going backwards Sam
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 1, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
This won't take long! We are going backwards – launching long and refusing
to play the most successful strike partnership we have seen at the club
since Cottee and McAvennie. Andy Carroll most certainly has a role to play
but not as a permanent fixture come hell or high water. Also we have been
told by the manager himself that with so many games coming in such a hurry
over Christmas and the New Year there needed to be some rotation…unless. it
seems, your name is Carroll! We have reached the point where it really is AC
and one other – some rotation policy that! It didn't work at Chelsea and it
didn't work today. Diafra Sakho is unquestionably Carroll's equal. Enner
Valencia has pace to burn and on his days is electric but the manager does
love his big man up front however unsuited – as was the case at Chelsea –
the tactic may be to the game conditions. These things are so self evident
they don't really need to be repeated but such is the obsession with AC
under the current manager we are forced to do so over and over again . The
result of the Carroll love-in is that we launch long and the 'to feet' game
which brought us all our early success is slowly disappearing unlike Carlton
Cole who Sam Allardyce admitted earlier this week is "one of my favourites."
That is pretty worrying and another example of the way things are going.
'Back to the Future' has been on the box about five times this Christmas.
Seems we are seeing another re-run at the Boleyn and it's nothing like as
entertaining!
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Noble looks to be the missing link
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 1, 2015 in Whispers
By Richard Oses
Bubbles Fanzine Editor
https://www.facebook.com/bubblesfanzine
Another disappointing afternoon has left everyone debating what has gone so
horribly wrong lately for the Hammers.
Much has been said and written about Sam Allardyce's tactics or squad
selection, Andy Carroll's form compared to Enner Valencia, Mauro Zarate
being shunned out of the squad instead of the likes of Carlton Cole and many
other theories and opinions.
All of these may have played their part as well as fatigue from a packed
Christmas fixture list and some bad luck from referee decisions going
against the team.
The Arsenal game was deserving of at least a point which can maybe act as
some sort of consolation for the fans. Likewise to ease the pain, no one
expected anything away to Chelsea.
However for me, over the entire Christmas period, there is one thing that
stands out over everything else and that is the absence of Mark Noble.
Since his return to the squad from injury, he has not featured in the first
team despite being a regular until injury sidelined him. Noble is a
workhorse who bleeds passion and desire.
Today's match against West Brom is a great example of why West Ham have
missed Noble's presence in the team. With some of the players feeling the
effects of playing so many games in such a short space of time and the
complacent attitude towards the opponents I believe Noble would have made a
huge difference.
A lot of players (and fans) seemed to think that three points were already
in the bag today. This was even more evident after Diafra Sakho's opener on
10 minutes.
The team took the foot off the pedal and let West Brom back into the game.
Even in the second half the players wlacked urgency and desire to kill the
game and bag all three points. Had Mark Noble been playing today he could
have been the driving force behind a West Ham win.
How many games this season has the team been in front and carried on with
the job in hand and killed the game off? Or for that matter when the side
have been losing and come back to win the game?
It is all to do with the attitude and desire on display and as foolhardy as
it would be to say that Noble is the only player that can muster the
required oomph to keep going, it is plain to see the difference when he
isn't in the team.
Yes, by all means we can point out the lack of the coveted Valencia-Sakho
partnership or the countless other things that have gone against us lately.
But if you want a nutshell explanation there is no need to look any further
than this: Should there have been a stronger desire and urgency in the last
two games – a draw would have been earned against Arsenal and a win would
have been rescued today against West Brom
And there is no better player at injecting the right mental attitude
required than Mr West Ham himself; Mark Noble.
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Carroll fury at Sun story
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 1, 2015 in Whispers
Claret 7 Hugh
Andy Carroll has rubbised the front page story in today's Sun in which the
downmarket tabloid claimed he had been at the centre of a Christmas con!
The paper said he and Sam Allardyce were tricked out of £11,000 when a
conman turned up at the training ground promising cut-price Fortnum & Mason
hampers and Harrods champers. T he pair allegedly paid £11,000 but the
conman did not deliver! However, Carroll has denied the incident happened
and wonders how the paper can away with writing such stuff tweeting his
feelings on the matter.
He tweeted: Don't know how @TheASunNewspaper can get away with making up
stories #MyMonyIsSafe
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Cameroon "make contact" with Song
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 1, 2015 in Whispers
Calret & Hugh
The Cameroon FA are keeping West Ham in the dark over the possible late
call-up of Alex Song for the African Nations Cup. But ClaretandHugh has
learned that contact has been made with the player and that there remains a
chance he will be called into his nation's squad. Rumours have been
circulating for several days that Cameroon bosses could do a big U turn and
turn to Song after omitting him from the original squad. And this morning we
made contact with a well placed Irons insider who confirmed that it remains
a live possibility.
He said: "They have been in touch with the player but beyond that we really
don't know whats going on. However, they can call him up right up to two
days before their first game. "Obviously we are keeping our fingers firmly
crossed but sadly the situation is entirely out of our hands and it's become
totally a waiting game."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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Wednesday, December 31
Daily WHUFC News - 1st January 2015
Happy New Year !!!
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Preview: West Bromwich Albion
WHUFC.com
Everything you need to know about Thursday's game with West Bromwich Albion
31.12.2014
WEST HAM UNITED v WEST BROMWICH ALBION
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
THE BOLEYN GROUND
THURSDAY 1 JANUARY 2014
KICK-OFF: 3PM
REFEREE: JONATHAN MOSS
In brief
West Ham United host West Bromwich Albion in the first round of return games
this season. The Hammers beat the Baggies 2-1 earlier on in the campaign,
coming from a goal down to win courtesy of goals from Kevin Nolan and James
Tomkins. The Hammers go into the game looking to bounce back from narrow
defeats to Chelsea and Arsenal over the Christmas period. They currently sit
sixth in the Premier League table with 31 points from 19 games.
The Baggies have struggled of late, losing their last three games
culminating in the dismissal of Alan Irvine on Monday. they sit in 16th,
with 17 points from 19 games.
Who are they?
West Bromwich Albion were formed in 1878 out of workers from Salter's Spring
Works in West Bromwich.
They recorded their biggest ever win over Coseley in 1882, winning an
impressive 26-0 and going on to win the Staffordshire Senior Cup, their
first trophy, the next season.
West Brom were one of twelve founding members of the Football League in
1888. That same year they won the FA Cup for the first time.
The Baggies won their one and only Division One title in 1919/20. Other
honours include winning the FA Cup a total of five times, most recently in
1967/68, as well as a League Cup title in 1965/66.
More recently, they have established themselves as a Premier League club
after being promoted back to the top flight in 2010.
Team news
West Ham United
Sam Allardyce has the rare luxury of picking a team from a near full squad.
The only absentee is James Tomkins who is suspended after picking up his
fifth booking of the season.
Carl Jenkinson returns after being unable to play against his parent club
Arsenal on Sunday.
West Bromwich Albion
Jonas Olsson is still out after undergoing surgery on his calf. The Baggies
could also be without Victor Anichebe (Groin), James Morrison (Knee) and
Stephane Sessegnon (Calf).
Referee
Thursday's referee is Jonathan Moss. Moss has been in charge of one West Ham
game this season already - the Hammers' 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on 8
November 2014. Moss has refereed 14 matches this season, with the hosts
winning eight of them, including West Brom's 4-0 demolition of Burnley.
The Assistant Referees are Darren Cann and Derek Eaton, while Lee Mason is
the Fourth Official.
Statistics
(2014/15 season - Barclays Premier League only)
Matches refereed: 14
Yellow cards shown: 51
Red cards shown: 5
Penalties awarded: 2
One to watch
West Ham United
French midfielder Morgan Amalfitano has been in impressive form of late. The
29-year-old almost scored against Chelsea after coming off the bench before
earning a start against Arsenal. The No21 put in a good performance and was
a constant thorn in Arsenal's side.
West Bromwich Albion
The Baggies invested a hefty £10 million in striker Brown Ideye and are yet
to see much return. However, once the powerful striker finds his feet in
English football he could prove to a real handful. The Hammers' defence will
have to be at the best in order to be victorious come New Year's Day.
Ideye enjoyed prolific spells with Neuchatel Xamax in Switzerland, French
club Sochaux and Ukranian outfit Dynamo Kiev prior to linking up with the
Baggies. He also has five goals in 24 caps for Nigeria.
TV coverage
Click here for a list of broadcasters for Thursday's game.
Tickets
Tickets are now sold out. The last remaining tickets for the Hammers' next
home game with Hull City are available here.
Travel
No closures are planned on the London Underground network on New Year's Day.
Click here for the latest news from Transport for London and here for
National Rail.
Weather
Thursday afternoon is set to be an overcast day yet temperatures will be
milder at 10C (50F) by kick off. There is a possibility of rain starting in
the second half.
Last home meeting
West Ham United 3-3 West Bromwich Albion
Barclays Premier League
28 December 2013
The Hammers took an early lead through Joe Cole's goal in the fourth minute,
but the Baggies went into the break 2-1 up through a brace from striker
Nicholas Anelka.
In the second half, the Hammers started the stronger and were rewarded when
substitute Modibo Maiga equalised before Kevin Nolan scored just two minutes
later.
Saido Berahino drew the visitors level to ensure the points were shared.
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen, McCartney, Tomkins (Demel 10), Rat, O'Brien,
Nolan, Jarvis, Noble, Diame, J Cole (J Collison 83), C Cole (Maiga 45)
Subs not used: Adrian, Chambers, Taylor, Diarra
West Bromwich Albion: Foster, Olsson, Ridgewell, Lugano (Amalfitano 68),
McAuley, Jones, Morrison (Yacob 78), Brunt, Mulumbu, Berahino (Sessegnon
85), Anelka
Subs not used: Myhill, Dawson, Sinclair, Vydra
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Enner targets more goals
WHUFC.com
Enner Valencia has had a whirlwind 2014 yet hopes 2015 is even more special
30.12.2014
West Ham United striker Enner Valencia is hoping to maintain his impressive
form into the New Year after 25-year-old Ecuadorean enjoyed a whirlwind
2014. The devastatingly quick forward capped a remarkable year with the
birth of his second daughter, Amelia, born on Christmas Day. Speaking about
the new addition to the Valencia household, he said: "I became a father to a
baby girl called Amelia. It's a huge blessing for the family and we are all
very excited. It's my second child, I already have a three year old girl
called Biera." On the pitch, Valencia has had just an eventful year, the
highlights include playing - and scoring three goals - in the 2014 World Cup
in Brazil before making the move to east London where he has scored three
goals in his opening half-season at the Boleyn Ground. When describing his
achievements, he comes across very modest, yet focused and his desire to
achieve more is clear for all to hear. "2014 has been a great year for me. I
have been able to make the most of all the opportunities that have arisen. I
scored three goals at the World Cup and played in some very exciting
matches. I am very thankful that West Ham spotted me and that I am able to
play for such a big Club. "It's very special to play in the Premier League.
I'd like to thank West Ham for giving that opportunity. I am really enjoying
my time here. I am working very hard in training so I can perform to my best
ability. "I won the Ecuadorian title in 2013 with Emelec. My success there
gave me the chance to move to a foreign team. I joined Pachuca. In six
months there I scored 18 goals which was a great period for me."
Having signed for the Hammers, he made an almost instant impact as he netted
a thunderbolt against Hull City to help secure an important 2-2 away draw.
Speaking about the goal that instantly introduced him to English football he
said: "It was a very special goal. The fact it was my first goal made it
even better. I've watched it again many times since. It's often on TV so any
chance I get to watch it, I do."
He then followed up his wonder goal with two impressive headers against
Stoke City and Burnley that helped the Hammers secure four valuable points
on their travels. Despite his impressive start, Valencia is confident he has
more to offer, as he searches for his first goal at the Boleyn Ground. "I'm
working hard and I want to score a goal at home as soon as possible to thank
all the fans for supporting me and making me feel welcome. I'm doing all I
can to make sure West Ham stay near the top of the Premier League. "We've
suffered two painful losses recently and we've dropped down the table
slightly. We know the game against West Brom is a very important one and
we'll do our best to get the three points. We want to get 2015 started on
the right foot and have a good rest of the season. "I know that if I perform
well I can help West Ham stay in the upper reaches of the table, so that is
my main aim for next year."
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Mediawatch - 31 December
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
31.12.2014
The Guardian carries the news that Sam Allardyce confirmed that Mauro Zarate
will be joining Queens Park Rangers on loan in the January transfer window.
The Mirror report that the Hammers could lose Alex Song to the Africa Cup of
Nations after a u-turn from Cameroon, who are now keen to select him.
In the same newspaper, the manager has warned his team against a backlash
from West Bromwich Albion.
The Mail carry an end-of-year report, with focus on West Ham's vast
improvement in 2014.
Meanwhile, the Daily Mirror focuses on Adrian's role in helping the Hammers
towards the top four.
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West Ham v West Brom
KO 15:00
31 December 2014
Last updated at 11:36
By John Roder
Match of the Day commentator
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Upton Park Date: Thursday, 1 January
TEAM NEWS
West Ham central defender James Tomkins is suspended and will be replaced by
James Collins. On-loan Carl Jenkinson is available after being ineligible
against his parent club Arsenal.
Managerless West Brom are likely to be without forward Victor Anichebe, who
is nursing a groin injury. Georgios Samaras could feature after being again
left out of the squad for the 2-0 defeat at Stoke for personal reasons.
MATCH PREVIEW
When Bobby Gould was fired by the club he was managing on 28 December 1984,
he came out with the line: "All I got from Coventry City for Christmas was
the sack." It's the same story for Alan Irvine and Neil Warnock 30 years
later, with Alan Irvine shown the exit door by West Bromwich Albion on
Monday night after a poor run of seven defeats in their last nine matches.
"West Ham have hit a bit of a glitch with successive defeats by Chelsea and
Arsenal so this is probably the perfect fixture for them to get back on
track." West Brom come into 2015 two places and one point above the
relegation zone, and have half a season to ensure survival. Yet if you look
at their final five matches of the campaign they have to face Liverpool,
Manchester United, Newcastle, Chelsea and Arsenal. So it could be argued
that their extremely difficult run-in means they have only 14 matches to
guarantee another campaign in the top division - beginning at Upton Park.
At the start of the season, West Ham boss Sam Allardyce was among the
bookmakers favourites for an early departure from his job at Upton Park, but
not anymore. The Hammers commence the new year in sixth place in the Premier
League, having dropped out of the Champions League places following defeats
by Chelsea and Arsenal in their two post-Christmas matches. As a Black
Country boy and former West Brom player and coach, Allardyce knows all about
the fervour for football at The Hawthorns, and will have sympathy for
Irvine. But amid the upheaval it's a great chance for West Ham to complete
the double over their opponents, having won 2-1 at West Brom a month ago.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Brom are winless in their last five visits to West Ham (D3, L2). They
last won at Upton Park on their first Premier League trip there in September
2002.
The last three meetings at Upton Park have produced a total of 14 goals.
West Ham
West Ham have lost consecutive league matches for the first time this
season.
The Hammers lost at home for the first time since August on Sunday when they
were beaten by Arsenal.
They have lost seven of their 10 Premier League New Year's Day games (W3,
L7).
Stewart Downing has created 54 goalscoring chances this season, more than
twice as many as West Brom's top creator (Graham Dorrans with 25).
West Brom
West Brom have lost their last three league matches - and have won just two
of their last 12 away (W2, D2, L8).
The Baggies have scored just five goals in their last 11 Premier League away
games and failed to score in seven of those matches.
Albion have won one of their five Premier League New Year's Day fixtures
(W1, D1, L3).
Saido Berahino has scored in two of his three Premier League games against
West Ham.
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Zarate to miss QPR Cup tie
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 31st December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Mauro Zarate has been ruled out of making his debut for Queens Park Rangers
this weekend. The 27-year-old striker, who left West Ham in a fit of pique
this week had been hoping to make his debut for Rangers against League One
Sheffield United this Sunday. However the Argentine forward is unable to
play as his new club have failed to register him in time. Harry Redknapp,
speaking to the press this morning confirmed that Zarate would not be
available. "We can't play him in the Cup, because we need seven days to
register him," he said. "We also want him to have a few days with us first
in training." Had Zarate featured against the Blades it would have been the
second occasion on which he had played against them this season, having come
on as a 79th-minute substitute in West Ham's Capital One Cup penalty
shootout defeat back in August.
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Jonjo a no-go, says Monk
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 31st December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Swansea boss Garry Monk says his club have no intention of parting with
Jonjo Shelvey, who has been linked with a move to West Ham in recent days.
Romford-born Shelvey, who hails from a family of Hammers has been with the
Jacks since July 2013 but appears unlikely to move anywhere soon. "He is
going to get a lot better and I want that to happen here at Swansea, not
anywhere else," said Monk. In other transfer news, Pablo Armero could be on
his way back to the Premier League after Hull City expressed an interest in
taking the Udinese defender. The 28-year-old, who spent last season at the
Boleyn is currently on loan at Milan but out of contract next summer.
Armero's agent Luciano Ramalho told MilanNews: "Armero's focused on Milan.
If there's an important offer, then obviously we'd try to find an agreement.
Anything is possible in football, but at the moment there is nothing. Armero
has a contract with Milan, he's got his head down and is working hard."
Elsewhere today, Former West Ham Managing Director Peter Storrie has
surfaced in Australia as Associate Director of A-League club Central Coast
Mariners. Now 62, Storrie - who spent nine years at West Ham in the 1990s -
is joining the Mariners in a marketing and commercial capacity. "I look
forward to meeting all parties that wish to unite and get behind the
Mariners, and working with the current management and staff at the club," he
said. "As one we can make the Mariners a success on and off the field."
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Zarate didn't produce, says Allardyce
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 31st December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce believes Mauro Zarate wasn't good enough to hold down a first
team spot at West Ham. The 27-year-old forward was signed on the say-so of
co-Chairman David Sullivan last summer, but failed to break through to
manager Sam Allardyce's first XI - mainly due to the form of Enner Valencia,
Stewart Downing and Diafra Sakho (another Sullivan signing). Now set to sign
on loan for QPR, having fired a parting shot at his former manager,
Allardyce says he bears Zarate no ill-feeling - but insisted that he didn't
have the quality to displace those ahead of his in the pecking order. "He is
not good enough to play as regularly as he wants compared to the others.
It's as simple as that," Allardyce told the Guardian. "When you look at
what Mauro has achieved when he's played compared to what Valencia, Sakho
and Carroll have achieved, when you look at how much he's contributed and
how much he's given in the all-round game and what they've given, then
somebody's going to be unhappy."
Allardyce also distanced himself from comments made by Zarate, in which he
claimed the manager wouldn't play him because he was signed by Sullivan; an
odd charge to make given that one of the players keeping him out of the
team, Diafra Sakho, was also signed at the behest of the co-owner. "From a
personal point of view, I'm better keeping my mouth shut and dealing with it
internally rather than joining in," added Allardyce. "He's a lad who's very
frustrated about not being picked, but what he's saying is not true. "It's
got nothing to do with a personal point of view. I've had a great affection
for my captain (over many years but I didn't play him against Arsenal. Does
that tell you that I bias my opinion on feelings? "I bias my feelings on
what I consider to be the best team. It's a professional, clinical decision,
not an emotional one."
West Ham - minus Zarate - face West Bromwich Albion at the Boleyn Ground
tomorrow. The soon-to-be-appointed Tony Pulis is set to watch his new Albion
side from the stands.
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Keith Downing and Rob Kelly to take charge of West Brom at West Ham
Last Updated: 31/12/14 11:34am
SSN
Managerless West Bromwich Albion travel to West Ham United on New Year's Day
looking for their first win at Upton Park in more than a decade. West Brom,
who will have Keith Downing and Rob Kelly in temporary charge after Alan
Irvine's sacking, are bidding to end a run of three consecutive defeats,
while West Ham are also without a point over the festive period. Sam
Allardyce's men put in a strong performance during Sunday's defeat at home
to Arsenal and they will be keen to avoid losing a third Premier League game
in a row for the first time since April.
Team news
James Tomkins (suspended) is the only West Ham absentee, while loanee Carl
Jenkinson is available after being ineligible for Sunday's loss against
parent club Arsenal.
Victor Anichebe (groin) is struggling for West Brom, but Georgios Samaras is
back in the frame after returning from a period of leave for personal
reasons.
Opta stats
West Ham have only lost two of their last 12 Barclays Premier League clashes
with the Baggies (W5 D5).
West Brom have won just one of their five Premier League New Year's Day
fixtures (W1 D1 L3).
West Ham have lost seven of their 10 Premier League New Year's Day games (W3
L7).
Stewart Downing has created 54 goalscoring chances this season, more than
twice as many as the Baggies' top creator (Dorrans, 25).
Merson's prediction
I expect West Ham to win this. I did not expect them to get beaten by
Arsenal. I thought they had been playing well enough to cause them real
problems at home and I think they will be majorly disappointed with that
result. In fact, I think Allardyce was shocked with that result, I don't
think he thought he would get beaten. As for West Brom, if they get Tony
Pulis, then that is bad, bad news for all the teams at the bottom because
they will stay up, and that will be one of them out of the equation, it is
as simple as that. All their rivals will not want Tony to be their manager,
if I am being honest. So I am going to go 2-0 to West Ham there.
PAUL PREDICTS: 2-0
Betting
West Ham are odds-on (5/6) to return to winning ways against an out-of-sorts
West Brom (16/5). The hosts have scored three goals in each of their last
two meetings with West Brom at Upton Park and 3/1 to repeat the feat. Andy
Carroll and Enner Valencia are both 9/2 to net first, while Saido Berahino
and Morgan Amalfitano (both 11/2) are the best Baggies bets to open the
scoring.
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Players should 'make a meal' out of contact to get penalties, says Sam
Allardyce
Last Updated: 31/12/14 4:03pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce believes players should "make a meal" out of
contact in the penalty area if it helps referees to "make the right
decision". The debate over diving has re-emerged after Chelsea boss Jose
Mourinho spoke of a campaign against his team, with Cesc Fabregas booked for
simulation on Sunday. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has called for new
measures to be put in place to punish diving, suggesting retrospective
action should be taken to help stamp out the problem. Although Hammers boss
Allardyce is against full-blown simulation, he believes referees are not
good enough to make the right decisions 100% of the time. West Ham manager
Sam Allardyce warns of the threat that West Brom offer his side and
highlights 2014 as a successful season for the club having picked up 5 "As
long as it's not simulation and you get the right decision from it then it's
fine," Allardyce said. "If you're not touched and you go down then that's
not the way forward, but if you can't get what you should get then you make
a meal of it because the contact is sufficient enough.
"The contact on Morgan Amalfitano in our last game was sufficient enough to
impede him getting the ball cleanly in that position, to try to help us
score a goal. As difficult as it is for referees, those are the decisions
that they should be capable of giving.
"Unfortunately referees are not brave enough to give those penalties
because, in the atmosphere in the stadiums, it doesn't look like one. But
their job is to identify if it is one or not. "A very good game from a
referee can't involve being 99% great and then 1% a major decision he's got
wrong. He's had a bad game, like a goalkeeper who's been brilliant and drops
one in the net."
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WHY I'D RATHER SEE US BEAT THE BAGGIES THAN ARSENAL OR CHELSEA
By Bobby Shovels 31 Dec 2014 at 12:59
West Ham till I Die
Nine consecutive losses against Arsenal? That's tough, and that 3-1 home
victory against Rafael Benítez's Chelsea seems a long time ago. Still, the
two defeats in two derbies in three days is something I can live with.
Football and propaganda go hand-in-hand and this season, with its surprise
results and ever-changing table, has seen an abundance of managerial
spin-doctoring. How many times have the likes of Martinez or Pardew claimed
that a certain result will transform their season and yet it fails to do so?
Brendan Rodgers may claim Liverpool are on the up, yet it's only been a few
weeks since their 3-0 drubbing at Old Trafford.
It is in this world of hype-mongering that I have grown wary at the media
praise being lavished on the Hammers, something shared by Sam Allardyce, who
warned the players not to get caught up in the media craze surrounding the
team back in November. Cue Andy Carroll claiming we could win the league.
The two defeats in the last week should – I hope – not dampen spirits but
act as both a reminder of our limits as well as a spur to action against
West Brom. I love the fact that we were fourth over Christmas, but I knew we
would not remain there for long and I do not see a Europa League place as
something of an end-of-season must have.
For overly optimistic Hammers fans out there, the chairmen included, take
your European dream to a logical conclusion: we finish fourth this season,
qualify for the Champions League, and then what? It would be an
embarrassment greater than Liverpool's attempt this year. That was a timely
reminder about over-stretching too quickly.
Or maybe we finish fifth and the Europa League beckons? That is ultimately
more realistic, but I would rather see us keep a strong squad together this
season, finish comfortably and then build on that success next season.
Remember that Big Sam is a long-term man. That is why we rightly stuck with
him: to make this club stay in the Premier League for the long haul and
recreate the glory days when we move to the Olympic Stadium. Yes, we can
criticise Big Sam for putting us through the trials of last season, but we
can't then turn around a few months later and question why we are not aiming
for fourth. Time, patience, a clear head: Big Sam has it and the fans need
it too.
So why is the West Brom game important? Because we have to continue to think
in a mind-set that puts points before prizes. When we beat Swansea, a man in
the Chicken Run turned to me and said, "We're third!" I replied, "For now."
He nodded, adding, "It's the points on the board that matter."
That is the perfect West Ham conversation; revel in the moment but be
cautious of the future. Winning games against the smaller teams are key to
ensuring we never flirt with relegation again nor mid-table mediocrity.
Grinding out those results is the key to finishing consistently in the top
half. Look at Arsenal: they haven't beaten Manchester United, Manchester
City or Chelsea in years, yet they get the results against the lower clubs
that ensures their fourth-place finish.
So don't get caught up in the Hammers hype: think about the reality and the
long-term goal – and then rally behind the boys against the Baggies.
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Mauro Zarate loan deal is not done and dusted... but we are looking to get a
striker in, says QPR boss Harry Redknapp
Mauro Zarate is expected to join Queens Park Rangers on loan
The West Ham forward has reportedly undergone a medical at QPR
Harry Redknapp has said he is looking to bolster his attacking options
By TOM ALLNUTT, PRESS ASSOCIATION SPORT
PUBLISHED: 16:07, 31 December 2014 | UPDATED: 16:07, 31 December 2014
Daily Mail
QPR boss Harry Redknapp believes Mauro Zarate can be the answer to his
striker shortage but insists a deal has not yet been completed for the West
Ham forward. Zarate, who joined the Hammers from Argentine side Velez
Sarsfield in the summer, reportedly underwent a medical at Rangers on
Tuesday after struggling to establish himself at Upton Park. Redknapp has
made no secret of his desire to add at least one more striker to his squad
in January and the Rangers manager believes Zarate fits the bill. West Ham
boss Sam Allardyce says Mauro Zarate is having a medical at QPR ahead of a
loan move . The Argentine was the first of nine signings made by West Ham in
the summer but hasn't nailed down a spot . 'He's a player we've been talking
about loaning, it's not done yet though,' Redknapp said. He's a No 10, a
clever player who can open the door. 'I first came across him at Birmingham
a few years back when he played under Alex McLeish. 'It's not done and
dusted it's just something we're interested in - we are looking to loan a
player or two.' Zarate has scored two goals in seven league appearances for
West Ham this season but has struggled for a starting spot ahead of Diafra
Sakho, Enner Valencia and Andy Carroll. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce responded
to claims he had treated Zarate unfairly by insisting the 27-year-old had
simply not been good enough to secure a regular place in the side. Redknapp
said: 'Sam said he's done well enough but you can see why he hasn't played -
they've got Sakho, Valencia, Carroll, Carlton Cole and Zarate - they've got
five strikers. 'They're good players and they've been in great form, they're
a threat to anybody so it's been difficult for Zarate to get in. 'Maybe Sam
prefers the others and they've been in great form so you can see why.'
Redknapp added: 'It's important to have options up front. You need somebody
else to weigh in with goals. 'We can't rely on Charlie (Austin) getting all
the goals. 'It's an area we're looking at but it's difficult, who is going
to loan you a striker who will score 10 to 12 goals before the end of the
season? Everyone is looking for a striker.' A goalless draw at home to
Crystal Palace on Sunday leaves QPR 15th in the table and two points above
the relegation zone. Redknapp's side host Swansea on New Year's Day, hoping
to continue their excellent form at Loftus Road which includes three wins in
their last four home matches. 'Our home form has been fantastic for us,
we've been difficult to beat at home,' Redknapp said. 'We now play all the
top teams at home in the second half of the season and we go away to the
bottom teams.' Redknapp added: 'Swansea are a good side, Garry Monk has done
a great job with them and he's just carried on from where they were.
'They've had great managers in the last few years, who have gone on to do
great things and he's another in that line.'
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West Ham forward Enner Valencia celebrates Christmas with birth of baby girl
Enner Valencia joined West Ham for £12million in the summer
He scored three goals for Ecuador at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil
Now, to top off the year, he is celebrating the birth of his second daughter
Valencia commented that it is 'a huge blessing for the family'
By BEN NAGLE FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 12:46, 31 December 2014 | UPDATED: 12:51, 31 December 2014
Daily Mail
West Ham forward Enner Valencia celebrated an extra special festive period
with the birth of his second daughter on Christmas Day. The Ecuadorian, who
joined the Hammers for £12million in the summer, has had a whirlwind year on
the pitch too, scoring three times at the World Cup in Brazil before heading
to east London. Speaking to the West Ham website, Valencia said of the
birth: 'I became a father to a baby girl called Amelia. It's a huge
blessing for the family and we are all very excited. It's my second child, I
already have a three year old girl called Biera.' There was no rest for the
25-year-old though, who headed across the capital on Boxing Day to play the
full 90 minutes against league leaders Chelsea, before coming on as a
substitute against Arsenal 48 hours later. In his first half-season at Upton
Park, Valencia has scored three Premier League goals, and helped the Hammers
to sixth in the table. '2014 has been a great year for me,' Valencia
continued. 'I have been able to make the most of all the opportunities that
have arisen. I scored three goals at the World Cup and played in some very
exciting matches. 'I am very thankful that West Ham spotted me and that I
am able to play for such a big club. 'It's very special to play in the
Premier League. I'd like to thank West Ham for giving that opportunity. I am
really enjoying my time here. I am working very hard in training so I can
perform to my best ability. 'I won the Ecuadorian title in 2013 with Emelec.
My success there gave me the chance to move to a foreign team. I joined
Pachuca. In six months there I scored 18 goals which was a great period for
me.'
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Hammers wage bill soars 12 per cent
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 31, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Hammers wage bill reached a total of £63.88m last season up from £56.5m
in the previous season. And the 12% increase is likely to bring West Ham
over the initial Financial Fair Play wage cap of £52m set for last season.
The £63.88m figure includes National Insurance and pensions costs for all
609 Hammers employees but the majority of these are part time staff and the
vast majority of the money is thought to go to the 100 players and backroom
staff employed on the football side of the club.
Two seasons ago the club's commercial revenue grew from £7.9m to £13.9m and
retail sales grew from £4.8m to £6m giving West Ham another £7.2m to spend
last season so that pushed our maximum wage cap up to £61.2m. The set of
financial accounts published at companies house this week show commercial
revenue and retail sales grew very slightly last season meaning our
Financial Fair Play for this season will be restricted to around £57m, the
sale of Mo Diame is believed to have bumped that up to just over the £60m
mark but we will need to be prudent with the wage bill to stay within the
rules.
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Judgement day awaits Allardyce
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 31, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Well Sam Allardyce has well and truly put his reputation as a judge on the
line! He boldly goes where few managers dare – telling one of his players
that he's not good enough, thus disagreeing with his chairman and another
veteran boss – a certain H Redknapp! I don't think Mauro Zarate will give a
tuppeny toss what Allardyce may or may not think of him for this is a player
who is no respecter of people whom he feels don't like or want him. His
background is littered with incidents such as these which might allow many
to immediately side with and believe that Sam is correct in his judgement
before wishing the boy "good riddance." To them may I just remind them of
just one name Paolo Di Canio! Another highly giften so called 'bad boy' who
became a legend! Before going any further let me make it crystal clear that
I haven't a clue whether Zarate would have been a massive success of
otherwise at Upton Park but I really did want to find out and the fact is
that hasn't been allowed.
The manager has decided the striker isn't good enough and denies Zarate's
accusation he only chooses his favourites as demonstrated by the fact he has
had more chances than one of them – Carlton Cole.That in fact is not the
case. Cole has made ten appearances and Zarate eight. Additionally we all
know exactly what Cole brings to the party whereas Zarate remains a totally
unknown quantity. And that Sam is the point!!!!
Quite why the manager decided to trade insults with the player is something
I'll leave others to decide – all I'll say is that it was entirely
unnecessary.Now he has waved goodbye to the boy who may or may not prove him
entirely wrong. At the end of the season Allardyce will be left with one of
two reputations – as a "wonderful judge" or a bloke with enough egg on his
face to make several omelettes.
The last 24 hours have been extremely distasteful and both Mauro and Sam
share the responsibility – one should perhaps have kept quiet, the other, as
manager, should have waited for the upcoming internal disciplinary hearing
to do its job. What happens should the player score a few goals at QPR and
prove himself the player some believe him to be we don't yet know, but he
looks to be beyond the point of no return anyway unless the Irons have a
change of manager
Were Allardyce to have answered Zarate's accusations at all he might have
been better advised to say: "He's not good enough for the style I want to
play!"
Instead has left himself wide open for Harry Redknapp and Mauro Zarate to
prove him wrong and that is just plain silly! The scenario both are now in
is really no surprise – most would have expected such an outcome because the
player is simply not an Allardyce type and you wonder why he said "yes" to
the striker when the board suggested him – for that REALLY IS WHAT HAPPENS.
Controversy and upsets are never far away with a bloke as forthright as Sam
Allardyce in charge but this row seems childish in the extreme. And none of
it does the club's reputation any good at all – the whole thing could and
should have been handled far better. Even worse is that it has the potential
to raise again the for and against Allardyce thing, depending on the outcome
of Zarate's QPR loan spell.
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Brady's wages crash
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 31, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Recent financial accounts submitted to Companies House show that West Ham
paid Hammers vice chairman Karren Brady £636,000 for our last season – a
reduction of nearly one million pounds on the previous year when she picked
up £1,634,000. She is believed to have received a£1 million bonus related to
the Olympic Stadium bid paid over five years so her gross pay was likely to
have been £836,000 including 20% of the bonus payment. Baroness Brady of
Knightsbridge, as she is now known, is believed to have a net worth of
around £82m. In addition to West Ham she is also chairman of Kerrang! and a
non executive director for Syco, Mothercare, Arcadia and Sport England. She
was recently appointed to the House of Lords where she can claim a £300 per
day attendance fee plus other expenses. She receives a significant
appearance fee for appearing on BBC Apprentice with Lord Sugar. However her
West Ham salary is dwarfed byDaniel Levy's £2.2m as CEO of Spurs or
Arsenal's Chief executive Ivan Gazidis who pocketed £2m.
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Preview: West Bromwich Albion
WHUFC.com
Everything you need to know about Thursday's game with West Bromwich Albion
31.12.2014
WEST HAM UNITED v WEST BROMWICH ALBION
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
THE BOLEYN GROUND
THURSDAY 1 JANUARY 2014
KICK-OFF: 3PM
REFEREE: JONATHAN MOSS
In brief
West Ham United host West Bromwich Albion in the first round of return games
this season. The Hammers beat the Baggies 2-1 earlier on in the campaign,
coming from a goal down to win courtesy of goals from Kevin Nolan and James
Tomkins. The Hammers go into the game looking to bounce back from narrow
defeats to Chelsea and Arsenal over the Christmas period. They currently sit
sixth in the Premier League table with 31 points from 19 games.
The Baggies have struggled of late, losing their last three games
culminating in the dismissal of Alan Irvine on Monday. they sit in 16th,
with 17 points from 19 games.
Who are they?
West Bromwich Albion were formed in 1878 out of workers from Salter's Spring
Works in West Bromwich.
They recorded their biggest ever win over Coseley in 1882, winning an
impressive 26-0 and going on to win the Staffordshire Senior Cup, their
first trophy, the next season.
West Brom were one of twelve founding members of the Football League in
1888. That same year they won the FA Cup for the first time.
The Baggies won their one and only Division One title in 1919/20. Other
honours include winning the FA Cup a total of five times, most recently in
1967/68, as well as a League Cup title in 1965/66.
More recently, they have established themselves as a Premier League club
after being promoted back to the top flight in 2010.
Team news
West Ham United
Sam Allardyce has the rare luxury of picking a team from a near full squad.
The only absentee is James Tomkins who is suspended after picking up his
fifth booking of the season.
Carl Jenkinson returns after being unable to play against his parent club
Arsenal on Sunday.
West Bromwich Albion
Jonas Olsson is still out after undergoing surgery on his calf. The Baggies
could also be without Victor Anichebe (Groin), James Morrison (Knee) and
Stephane Sessegnon (Calf).
Referee
Thursday's referee is Jonathan Moss. Moss has been in charge of one West Ham
game this season already - the Hammers' 0-0 draw with Aston Villa on 8
November 2014. Moss has refereed 14 matches this season, with the hosts
winning eight of them, including West Brom's 4-0 demolition of Burnley.
The Assistant Referees are Darren Cann and Derek Eaton, while Lee Mason is
the Fourth Official.
Statistics
(2014/15 season - Barclays Premier League only)
Matches refereed: 14
Yellow cards shown: 51
Red cards shown: 5
Penalties awarded: 2
One to watch
West Ham United
French midfielder Morgan Amalfitano has been in impressive form of late. The
29-year-old almost scored against Chelsea after coming off the bench before
earning a start against Arsenal. The No21 put in a good performance and was
a constant thorn in Arsenal's side.
West Bromwich Albion
The Baggies invested a hefty £10 million in striker Brown Ideye and are yet
to see much return. However, once the powerful striker finds his feet in
English football he could prove to a real handful. The Hammers' defence will
have to be at the best in order to be victorious come New Year's Day.
Ideye enjoyed prolific spells with Neuchatel Xamax in Switzerland, French
club Sochaux and Ukranian outfit Dynamo Kiev prior to linking up with the
Baggies. He also has five goals in 24 caps for Nigeria.
TV coverage
Click here for a list of broadcasters for Thursday's game.
Tickets
Tickets are now sold out. The last remaining tickets for the Hammers' next
home game with Hull City are available here.
Travel
No closures are planned on the London Underground network on New Year's Day.
Click here for the latest news from Transport for London and here for
National Rail.
Weather
Thursday afternoon is set to be an overcast day yet temperatures will be
milder at 10C (50F) by kick off. There is a possibility of rain starting in
the second half.
Last home meeting
West Ham United 3-3 West Bromwich Albion
Barclays Premier League
28 December 2013
The Hammers took an early lead through Joe Cole's goal in the fourth minute,
but the Baggies went into the break 2-1 up through a brace from striker
Nicholas Anelka.
In the second half, the Hammers started the stronger and were rewarded when
substitute Modibo Maiga equalised before Kevin Nolan scored just two minutes
later.
Saido Berahino drew the visitors level to ensure the points were shared.
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen, McCartney, Tomkins (Demel 10), Rat, O'Brien,
Nolan, Jarvis, Noble, Diame, J Cole (J Collison 83), C Cole (Maiga 45)
Subs not used: Adrian, Chambers, Taylor, Diarra
West Bromwich Albion: Foster, Olsson, Ridgewell, Lugano (Amalfitano 68),
McAuley, Jones, Morrison (Yacob 78), Brunt, Mulumbu, Berahino (Sessegnon
85), Anelka
Subs not used: Myhill, Dawson, Sinclair, Vydra
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Enner targets more goals
WHUFC.com
Enner Valencia has had a whirlwind 2014 yet hopes 2015 is even more special
30.12.2014
West Ham United striker Enner Valencia is hoping to maintain his impressive
form into the New Year after 25-year-old Ecuadorean enjoyed a whirlwind
2014. The devastatingly quick forward capped a remarkable year with the
birth of his second daughter, Amelia, born on Christmas Day. Speaking about
the new addition to the Valencia household, he said: "I became a father to a
baby girl called Amelia. It's a huge blessing for the family and we are all
very excited. It's my second child, I already have a three year old girl
called Biera." On the pitch, Valencia has had just an eventful year, the
highlights include playing - and scoring three goals - in the 2014 World Cup
in Brazil before making the move to east London where he has scored three
goals in his opening half-season at the Boleyn Ground. When describing his
achievements, he comes across very modest, yet focused and his desire to
achieve more is clear for all to hear. "2014 has been a great year for me. I
have been able to make the most of all the opportunities that have arisen. I
scored three goals at the World Cup and played in some very exciting
matches. I am very thankful that West Ham spotted me and that I am able to
play for such a big Club. "It's very special to play in the Premier League.
I'd like to thank West Ham for giving that opportunity. I am really enjoying
my time here. I am working very hard in training so I can perform to my best
ability. "I won the Ecuadorian title in 2013 with Emelec. My success there
gave me the chance to move to a foreign team. I joined Pachuca. In six
months there I scored 18 goals which was a great period for me."
Having signed for the Hammers, he made an almost instant impact as he netted
a thunderbolt against Hull City to help secure an important 2-2 away draw.
Speaking about the goal that instantly introduced him to English football he
said: "It was a very special goal. The fact it was my first goal made it
even better. I've watched it again many times since. It's often on TV so any
chance I get to watch it, I do."
He then followed up his wonder goal with two impressive headers against
Stoke City and Burnley that helped the Hammers secure four valuable points
on their travels. Despite his impressive start, Valencia is confident he has
more to offer, as he searches for his first goal at the Boleyn Ground. "I'm
working hard and I want to score a goal at home as soon as possible to thank
all the fans for supporting me and making me feel welcome. I'm doing all I
can to make sure West Ham stay near the top of the Premier League. "We've
suffered two painful losses recently and we've dropped down the table
slightly. We know the game against West Brom is a very important one and
we'll do our best to get the three points. We want to get 2015 started on
the right foot and have a good rest of the season. "I know that if I perform
well I can help West Ham stay in the upper reaches of the table, so that is
my main aim for next year."
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Mediawatch - 31 December
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
31.12.2014
The Guardian carries the news that Sam Allardyce confirmed that Mauro Zarate
will be joining Queens Park Rangers on loan in the January transfer window.
The Mirror report that the Hammers could lose Alex Song to the Africa Cup of
Nations after a u-turn from Cameroon, who are now keen to select him.
In the same newspaper, the manager has warned his team against a backlash
from West Bromwich Albion.
The Mail carry an end-of-year report, with focus on West Ham's vast
improvement in 2014.
Meanwhile, the Daily Mirror focuses on Adrian's role in helping the Hammers
towards the top four.
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West Ham v West Brom
KO 15:00
31 December 2014
Last updated at 11:36
By John Roder
Match of the Day commentator
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Upton Park Date: Thursday, 1 January
TEAM NEWS
West Ham central defender James Tomkins is suspended and will be replaced by
James Collins. On-loan Carl Jenkinson is available after being ineligible
against his parent club Arsenal.
Managerless West Brom are likely to be without forward Victor Anichebe, who
is nursing a groin injury. Georgios Samaras could feature after being again
left out of the squad for the 2-0 defeat at Stoke for personal reasons.
MATCH PREVIEW
When Bobby Gould was fired by the club he was managing on 28 December 1984,
he came out with the line: "All I got from Coventry City for Christmas was
the sack." It's the same story for Alan Irvine and Neil Warnock 30 years
later, with Alan Irvine shown the exit door by West Bromwich Albion on
Monday night after a poor run of seven defeats in their last nine matches.
"West Ham have hit a bit of a glitch with successive defeats by Chelsea and
Arsenal so this is probably the perfect fixture for them to get back on
track." West Brom come into 2015 two places and one point above the
relegation zone, and have half a season to ensure survival. Yet if you look
at their final five matches of the campaign they have to face Liverpool,
Manchester United, Newcastle, Chelsea and Arsenal. So it could be argued
that their extremely difficult run-in means they have only 14 matches to
guarantee another campaign in the top division - beginning at Upton Park.
At the start of the season, West Ham boss Sam Allardyce was among the
bookmakers favourites for an early departure from his job at Upton Park, but
not anymore. The Hammers commence the new year in sixth place in the Premier
League, having dropped out of the Champions League places following defeats
by Chelsea and Arsenal in their two post-Christmas matches. As a Black
Country boy and former West Brom player and coach, Allardyce knows all about
the fervour for football at The Hawthorns, and will have sympathy for
Irvine. But amid the upheaval it's a great chance for West Ham to complete
the double over their opponents, having won 2-1 at West Brom a month ago.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Brom are winless in their last five visits to West Ham (D3, L2). They
last won at Upton Park on their first Premier League trip there in September
2002.
The last three meetings at Upton Park have produced a total of 14 goals.
West Ham
West Ham have lost consecutive league matches for the first time this
season.
The Hammers lost at home for the first time since August on Sunday when they
were beaten by Arsenal.
They have lost seven of their 10 Premier League New Year's Day games (W3,
L7).
Stewart Downing has created 54 goalscoring chances this season, more than
twice as many as West Brom's top creator (Graham Dorrans with 25).
West Brom
West Brom have lost their last three league matches - and have won just two
of their last 12 away (W2, D2, L8).
The Baggies have scored just five goals in their last 11 Premier League away
games and failed to score in seven of those matches.
Albion have won one of their five Premier League New Year's Day fixtures
(W1, D1, L3).
Saido Berahino has scored in two of his three Premier League games against
West Ham.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zarate to miss QPR Cup tie
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 31st December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Mauro Zarate has been ruled out of making his debut for Queens Park Rangers
this weekend. The 27-year-old striker, who left West Ham in a fit of pique
this week had been hoping to make his debut for Rangers against League One
Sheffield United this Sunday. However the Argentine forward is unable to
play as his new club have failed to register him in time. Harry Redknapp,
speaking to the press this morning confirmed that Zarate would not be
available. "We can't play him in the Cup, because we need seven days to
register him," he said. "We also want him to have a few days with us first
in training." Had Zarate featured against the Blades it would have been the
second occasion on which he had played against them this season, having come
on as a 79th-minute substitute in West Ham's Capital One Cup penalty
shootout defeat back in August.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jonjo a no-go, says Monk
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 31st December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Swansea boss Garry Monk says his club have no intention of parting with
Jonjo Shelvey, who has been linked with a move to West Ham in recent days.
Romford-born Shelvey, who hails from a family of Hammers has been with the
Jacks since July 2013 but appears unlikely to move anywhere soon. "He is
going to get a lot better and I want that to happen here at Swansea, not
anywhere else," said Monk. In other transfer news, Pablo Armero could be on
his way back to the Premier League after Hull City expressed an interest in
taking the Udinese defender. The 28-year-old, who spent last season at the
Boleyn is currently on loan at Milan but out of contract next summer.
Armero's agent Luciano Ramalho told MilanNews: "Armero's focused on Milan.
If there's an important offer, then obviously we'd try to find an agreement.
Anything is possible in football, but at the moment there is nothing. Armero
has a contract with Milan, he's got his head down and is working hard."
Elsewhere today, Former West Ham Managing Director Peter Storrie has
surfaced in Australia as Associate Director of A-League club Central Coast
Mariners. Now 62, Storrie - who spent nine years at West Ham in the 1990s -
is joining the Mariners in a marketing and commercial capacity. "I look
forward to meeting all parties that wish to unite and get behind the
Mariners, and working with the current management and staff at the club," he
said. "As one we can make the Mariners a success on and off the field."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zarate didn't produce, says Allardyce
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 31st December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce believes Mauro Zarate wasn't good enough to hold down a first
team spot at West Ham. The 27-year-old forward was signed on the say-so of
co-Chairman David Sullivan last summer, but failed to break through to
manager Sam Allardyce's first XI - mainly due to the form of Enner Valencia,
Stewart Downing and Diafra Sakho (another Sullivan signing). Now set to sign
on loan for QPR, having fired a parting shot at his former manager,
Allardyce says he bears Zarate no ill-feeling - but insisted that he didn't
have the quality to displace those ahead of his in the pecking order. "He is
not good enough to play as regularly as he wants compared to the others.
It's as simple as that," Allardyce told the Guardian. "When you look at
what Mauro has achieved when he's played compared to what Valencia, Sakho
and Carroll have achieved, when you look at how much he's contributed and
how much he's given in the all-round game and what they've given, then
somebody's going to be unhappy."
Allardyce also distanced himself from comments made by Zarate, in which he
claimed the manager wouldn't play him because he was signed by Sullivan; an
odd charge to make given that one of the players keeping him out of the
team, Diafra Sakho, was also signed at the behest of the co-owner. "From a
personal point of view, I'm better keeping my mouth shut and dealing with it
internally rather than joining in," added Allardyce. "He's a lad who's very
frustrated about not being picked, but what he's saying is not true. "It's
got nothing to do with a personal point of view. I've had a great affection
for my captain (over many years but I didn't play him against Arsenal. Does
that tell you that I bias my opinion on feelings? "I bias my feelings on
what I consider to be the best team. It's a professional, clinical decision,
not an emotional one."
West Ham - minus Zarate - face West Bromwich Albion at the Boleyn Ground
tomorrow. The soon-to-be-appointed Tony Pulis is set to watch his new Albion
side from the stands.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Keith Downing and Rob Kelly to take charge of West Brom at West Ham
Last Updated: 31/12/14 11:34am
SSN
Managerless West Bromwich Albion travel to West Ham United on New Year's Day
looking for their first win at Upton Park in more than a decade. West Brom,
who will have Keith Downing and Rob Kelly in temporary charge after Alan
Irvine's sacking, are bidding to end a run of three consecutive defeats,
while West Ham are also without a point over the festive period. Sam
Allardyce's men put in a strong performance during Sunday's defeat at home
to Arsenal and they will be keen to avoid losing a third Premier League game
in a row for the first time since April.
Team news
James Tomkins (suspended) is the only West Ham absentee, while loanee Carl
Jenkinson is available after being ineligible for Sunday's loss against
parent club Arsenal.
Victor Anichebe (groin) is struggling for West Brom, but Georgios Samaras is
back in the frame after returning from a period of leave for personal
reasons.
Opta stats
West Ham have only lost two of their last 12 Barclays Premier League clashes
with the Baggies (W5 D5).
West Brom have won just one of their five Premier League New Year's Day
fixtures (W1 D1 L3).
West Ham have lost seven of their 10 Premier League New Year's Day games (W3
L7).
Stewart Downing has created 54 goalscoring chances this season, more than
twice as many as the Baggies' top creator (Dorrans, 25).
Merson's prediction
I expect West Ham to win this. I did not expect them to get beaten by
Arsenal. I thought they had been playing well enough to cause them real
problems at home and I think they will be majorly disappointed with that
result. In fact, I think Allardyce was shocked with that result, I don't
think he thought he would get beaten. As for West Brom, if they get Tony
Pulis, then that is bad, bad news for all the teams at the bottom because
they will stay up, and that will be one of them out of the equation, it is
as simple as that. All their rivals will not want Tony to be their manager,
if I am being honest. So I am going to go 2-0 to West Ham there.
PAUL PREDICTS: 2-0
Betting
West Ham are odds-on (5/6) to return to winning ways against an out-of-sorts
West Brom (16/5). The hosts have scored three goals in each of their last
two meetings with West Brom at Upton Park and 3/1 to repeat the feat. Andy
Carroll and Enner Valencia are both 9/2 to net first, while Saido Berahino
and Morgan Amalfitano (both 11/2) are the best Baggies bets to open the
scoring.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Players should 'make a meal' out of contact to get penalties, says Sam
Allardyce
Last Updated: 31/12/14 4:03pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce believes players should "make a meal" out of
contact in the penalty area if it helps referees to "make the right
decision". The debate over diving has re-emerged after Chelsea boss Jose
Mourinho spoke of a campaign against his team, with Cesc Fabregas booked for
simulation on Sunday. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has called for new
measures to be put in place to punish diving, suggesting retrospective
action should be taken to help stamp out the problem. Although Hammers boss
Allardyce is against full-blown simulation, he believes referees are not
good enough to make the right decisions 100% of the time. West Ham manager
Sam Allardyce warns of the threat that West Brom offer his side and
highlights 2014 as a successful season for the club having picked up 5 "As
long as it's not simulation and you get the right decision from it then it's
fine," Allardyce said. "If you're not touched and you go down then that's
not the way forward, but if you can't get what you should get then you make
a meal of it because the contact is sufficient enough.
"The contact on Morgan Amalfitano in our last game was sufficient enough to
impede him getting the ball cleanly in that position, to try to help us
score a goal. As difficult as it is for referees, those are the decisions
that they should be capable of giving.
"Unfortunately referees are not brave enough to give those penalties
because, in the atmosphere in the stadiums, it doesn't look like one. But
their job is to identify if it is one or not. "A very good game from a
referee can't involve being 99% great and then 1% a major decision he's got
wrong. He's had a bad game, like a goalkeeper who's been brilliant and drops
one in the net."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WHY I'D RATHER SEE US BEAT THE BAGGIES THAN ARSENAL OR CHELSEA
By Bobby Shovels 31 Dec 2014 at 12:59
West Ham till I Die
Nine consecutive losses against Arsenal? That's tough, and that 3-1 home
victory against Rafael Benítez's Chelsea seems a long time ago. Still, the
two defeats in two derbies in three days is something I can live with.
Football and propaganda go hand-in-hand and this season, with its surprise
results and ever-changing table, has seen an abundance of managerial
spin-doctoring. How many times have the likes of Martinez or Pardew claimed
that a certain result will transform their season and yet it fails to do so?
Brendan Rodgers may claim Liverpool are on the up, yet it's only been a few
weeks since their 3-0 drubbing at Old Trafford.
It is in this world of hype-mongering that I have grown wary at the media
praise being lavished on the Hammers, something shared by Sam Allardyce, who
warned the players not to get caught up in the media craze surrounding the
team back in November. Cue Andy Carroll claiming we could win the league.
The two defeats in the last week should – I hope – not dampen spirits but
act as both a reminder of our limits as well as a spur to action against
West Brom. I love the fact that we were fourth over Christmas, but I knew we
would not remain there for long and I do not see a Europa League place as
something of an end-of-season must have.
For overly optimistic Hammers fans out there, the chairmen included, take
your European dream to a logical conclusion: we finish fourth this season,
qualify for the Champions League, and then what? It would be an
embarrassment greater than Liverpool's attempt this year. That was a timely
reminder about over-stretching too quickly.
Or maybe we finish fifth and the Europa League beckons? That is ultimately
more realistic, but I would rather see us keep a strong squad together this
season, finish comfortably and then build on that success next season.
Remember that Big Sam is a long-term man. That is why we rightly stuck with
him: to make this club stay in the Premier League for the long haul and
recreate the glory days when we move to the Olympic Stadium. Yes, we can
criticise Big Sam for putting us through the trials of last season, but we
can't then turn around a few months later and question why we are not aiming
for fourth. Time, patience, a clear head: Big Sam has it and the fans need
it too.
So why is the West Brom game important? Because we have to continue to think
in a mind-set that puts points before prizes. When we beat Swansea, a man in
the Chicken Run turned to me and said, "We're third!" I replied, "For now."
He nodded, adding, "It's the points on the board that matter."
That is the perfect West Ham conversation; revel in the moment but be
cautious of the future. Winning games against the smaller teams are key to
ensuring we never flirt with relegation again nor mid-table mediocrity.
Grinding out those results is the key to finishing consistently in the top
half. Look at Arsenal: they haven't beaten Manchester United, Manchester
City or Chelsea in years, yet they get the results against the lower clubs
that ensures their fourth-place finish.
So don't get caught up in the Hammers hype: think about the reality and the
long-term goal – and then rally behind the boys against the Baggies.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mauro Zarate loan deal is not done and dusted... but we are looking to get a
striker in, says QPR boss Harry Redknapp
Mauro Zarate is expected to join Queens Park Rangers on loan
The West Ham forward has reportedly undergone a medical at QPR
Harry Redknapp has said he is looking to bolster his attacking options
By TOM ALLNUTT, PRESS ASSOCIATION SPORT
PUBLISHED: 16:07, 31 December 2014 | UPDATED: 16:07, 31 December 2014
Daily Mail
QPR boss Harry Redknapp believes Mauro Zarate can be the answer to his
striker shortage but insists a deal has not yet been completed for the West
Ham forward. Zarate, who joined the Hammers from Argentine side Velez
Sarsfield in the summer, reportedly underwent a medical at Rangers on
Tuesday after struggling to establish himself at Upton Park. Redknapp has
made no secret of his desire to add at least one more striker to his squad
in January and the Rangers manager believes Zarate fits the bill. West Ham
boss Sam Allardyce says Mauro Zarate is having a medical at QPR ahead of a
loan move . The Argentine was the first of nine signings made by West Ham in
the summer but hasn't nailed down a spot . 'He's a player we've been talking
about loaning, it's not done yet though,' Redknapp said. He's a No 10, a
clever player who can open the door. 'I first came across him at Birmingham
a few years back when he played under Alex McLeish. 'It's not done and
dusted it's just something we're interested in - we are looking to loan a
player or two.' Zarate has scored two goals in seven league appearances for
West Ham this season but has struggled for a starting spot ahead of Diafra
Sakho, Enner Valencia and Andy Carroll. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce responded
to claims he had treated Zarate unfairly by insisting the 27-year-old had
simply not been good enough to secure a regular place in the side. Redknapp
said: 'Sam said he's done well enough but you can see why he hasn't played -
they've got Sakho, Valencia, Carroll, Carlton Cole and Zarate - they've got
five strikers. 'They're good players and they've been in great form, they're
a threat to anybody so it's been difficult for Zarate to get in. 'Maybe Sam
prefers the others and they've been in great form so you can see why.'
Redknapp added: 'It's important to have options up front. You need somebody
else to weigh in with goals. 'We can't rely on Charlie (Austin) getting all
the goals. 'It's an area we're looking at but it's difficult, who is going
to loan you a striker who will score 10 to 12 goals before the end of the
season? Everyone is looking for a striker.' A goalless draw at home to
Crystal Palace on Sunday leaves QPR 15th in the table and two points above
the relegation zone. Redknapp's side host Swansea on New Year's Day, hoping
to continue their excellent form at Loftus Road which includes three wins in
their last four home matches. 'Our home form has been fantastic for us,
we've been difficult to beat at home,' Redknapp said. 'We now play all the
top teams at home in the second half of the season and we go away to the
bottom teams.' Redknapp added: 'Swansea are a good side, Garry Monk has done
a great job with them and he's just carried on from where they were.
'They've had great managers in the last few years, who have gone on to do
great things and he's another in that line.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham forward Enner Valencia celebrates Christmas with birth of baby girl
Enner Valencia joined West Ham for £12million in the summer
He scored three goals for Ecuador at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil
Now, to top off the year, he is celebrating the birth of his second daughter
Valencia commented that it is 'a huge blessing for the family'
By BEN NAGLE FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 12:46, 31 December 2014 | UPDATED: 12:51, 31 December 2014
Daily Mail
West Ham forward Enner Valencia celebrated an extra special festive period
with the birth of his second daughter on Christmas Day. The Ecuadorian, who
joined the Hammers for £12million in the summer, has had a whirlwind year on
the pitch too, scoring three times at the World Cup in Brazil before heading
to east London. Speaking to the West Ham website, Valencia said of the
birth: 'I became a father to a baby girl called Amelia. It's a huge
blessing for the family and we are all very excited. It's my second child, I
already have a three year old girl called Biera.' There was no rest for the
25-year-old though, who headed across the capital on Boxing Day to play the
full 90 minutes against league leaders Chelsea, before coming on as a
substitute against Arsenal 48 hours later. In his first half-season at Upton
Park, Valencia has scored three Premier League goals, and helped the Hammers
to sixth in the table. '2014 has been a great year for me,' Valencia
continued. 'I have been able to make the most of all the opportunities that
have arisen. I scored three goals at the World Cup and played in some very
exciting matches. 'I am very thankful that West Ham spotted me and that I
am able to play for such a big club. 'It's very special to play in the
Premier League. I'd like to thank West Ham for giving that opportunity. I am
really enjoying my time here. I am working very hard in training so I can
perform to my best ability. 'I won the Ecuadorian title in 2013 with Emelec.
My success there gave me the chance to move to a foreign team. I joined
Pachuca. In six months there I scored 18 goals which was a great period for
me.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers wage bill soars 12 per cent
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 31, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Hammers wage bill reached a total of £63.88m last season up from £56.5m
in the previous season. And the 12% increase is likely to bring West Ham
over the initial Financial Fair Play wage cap of £52m set for last season.
The £63.88m figure includes National Insurance and pensions costs for all
609 Hammers employees but the majority of these are part time staff and the
vast majority of the money is thought to go to the 100 players and backroom
staff employed on the football side of the club.
Two seasons ago the club's commercial revenue grew from £7.9m to £13.9m and
retail sales grew from £4.8m to £6m giving West Ham another £7.2m to spend
last season so that pushed our maximum wage cap up to £61.2m. The set of
financial accounts published at companies house this week show commercial
revenue and retail sales grew very slightly last season meaning our
Financial Fair Play for this season will be restricted to around £57m, the
sale of Mo Diame is believed to have bumped that up to just over the £60m
mark but we will need to be prudent with the wage bill to stay within the
rules.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Judgement day awaits Allardyce
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 31, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Well Sam Allardyce has well and truly put his reputation as a judge on the
line! He boldly goes where few managers dare – telling one of his players
that he's not good enough, thus disagreeing with his chairman and another
veteran boss – a certain H Redknapp! I don't think Mauro Zarate will give a
tuppeny toss what Allardyce may or may not think of him for this is a player
who is no respecter of people whom he feels don't like or want him. His
background is littered with incidents such as these which might allow many
to immediately side with and believe that Sam is correct in his judgement
before wishing the boy "good riddance." To them may I just remind them of
just one name Paolo Di Canio! Another highly giften so called 'bad boy' who
became a legend! Before going any further let me make it crystal clear that
I haven't a clue whether Zarate would have been a massive success of
otherwise at Upton Park but I really did want to find out and the fact is
that hasn't been allowed.
The manager has decided the striker isn't good enough and denies Zarate's
accusation he only chooses his favourites as demonstrated by the fact he has
had more chances than one of them – Carlton Cole.That in fact is not the
case. Cole has made ten appearances and Zarate eight. Additionally we all
know exactly what Cole brings to the party whereas Zarate remains a totally
unknown quantity. And that Sam is the point!!!!
Quite why the manager decided to trade insults with the player is something
I'll leave others to decide – all I'll say is that it was entirely
unnecessary.Now he has waved goodbye to the boy who may or may not prove him
entirely wrong. At the end of the season Allardyce will be left with one of
two reputations – as a "wonderful judge" or a bloke with enough egg on his
face to make several omelettes.
The last 24 hours have been extremely distasteful and both Mauro and Sam
share the responsibility – one should perhaps have kept quiet, the other, as
manager, should have waited for the upcoming internal disciplinary hearing
to do its job. What happens should the player score a few goals at QPR and
prove himself the player some believe him to be we don't yet know, but he
looks to be beyond the point of no return anyway unless the Irons have a
change of manager
Were Allardyce to have answered Zarate's accusations at all he might have
been better advised to say: "He's not good enough for the style I want to
play!"
Instead has left himself wide open for Harry Redknapp and Mauro Zarate to
prove him wrong and that is just plain silly! The scenario both are now in
is really no surprise – most would have expected such an outcome because the
player is simply not an Allardyce type and you wonder why he said "yes" to
the striker when the board suggested him – for that REALLY IS WHAT HAPPENS.
Controversy and upsets are never far away with a bloke as forthright as Sam
Allardyce in charge but this row seems childish in the extreme. And none of
it does the club's reputation any good at all – the whole thing could and
should have been handled far better. Even worse is that it has the potential
to raise again the for and against Allardyce thing, depending on the outcome
of Zarate's QPR loan spell.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Brady's wages crash
Posted by Sean Whetstone on December 31, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Recent financial accounts submitted to Companies House show that West Ham
paid Hammers vice chairman Karren Brady £636,000 for our last season – a
reduction of nearly one million pounds on the previous year when she picked
up £1,634,000. She is believed to have received a£1 million bonus related to
the Olympic Stadium bid paid over five years so her gross pay was likely to
have been £836,000 including 20% of the bonus payment. Baroness Brady of
Knightsbridge, as she is now known, is believed to have a net worth of
around £82m. In addition to West Ham she is also chairman of Kerrang! and a
non executive director for Syco, Mothercare, Arcadia and Sport England. She
was recently appointed to the House of Lords where she can claim a £300 per
day attendance fee plus other expenses. She receives a significant
appearance fee for appearing on BBC Apprentice with Lord Sugar. However her
West Ham salary is dwarfed byDaniel Levy's £2.2m as CEO of Spurs or
Arsenal's Chief executive Ivan Gazidis who pocketed £2m.
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