Quartet return to training
WHUFC.com
James Collins, Winston Reid, Diego Poyet and Matt Jarvis are all back in
training ahead of the weekend
17.02.2015
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce is set to be handed an injury boost
this week after central defenders James Collins and Winston Reid returned to
training at Chadwell Heath. The pair missed the Hammers' last three matches
with hamstring problems, meaning Cheikhou Kouyate had to fill in at centre
half alongside James Tomkins, but took a full part in Tuesday's training
session as Big Sam's team prepare to face Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend.
They had been joined on the sidelines by Matt Jarvis and Diego Poyet in
recent weeks, but the manager now has a near fully-fit squad, with only Andy
Carroll absent at present. The striker underwent surgery on his knee injury
on Tuesday, with further news of his condition expected in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Cheikhou Kouyate departed training early on Tuesday after landing
awkwardly on his arm, but has been given the all-clear to train on Wednesday
after going to hospital for a medical assessment.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lights go up at the new Stadium
WHUFC.com
Work has begun to install the floodlights at West Ham United's magnificent
new Stadium
17.02.2015
Installation of the first of 14 brand new floodlight towers to the former
Olympic Stadium has begun. The famous floodlights of the 2012 Games are soon
to illuminate the Stratford skyline once more, as they are secured into
place at West Ham United's stunning new home.
They will retain their iconic triangular design but hang inverted below the
Stadium's new roof, providing tremendous illumination to the field of play
and ensuring the unmistakable atmosphere of watching the Hammers under the
lights will continue. The new floodlight paddles will each house between
eight and 41 lamps, many of which are original lamps that shone over the
Stadium during London 2012.
Each floodlight measures 18 metres in length and weighs 45 tonnes - that's
twice the length of an old London Routemaster and almost six times as heavy.
Unsurprisingly therefore, lifting each floodlight into place is a huge
mechanical feat, taking up to 12 hours in total for each light. Club
Ambassador and West Ham stalwart Tony Carr MBE visited the Stadium to see
the first light going up and was stunned at the project's scale. "We've all
seen the light panels as they were during the Olympics, they were such a big
part of the iconic look of the Stadium, so it's quite something to see them
up close," he said. "It's an exciting moment, just being here you can see
how striking the lights will look when they are all in place and switched
on, sitting under the new roof. I have not been to the Stadium for nearly
two years and it's really changed since then, it's quite incredible to see
the transformation so far. The roof makes such a difference and you can see
the halo building, where the turnstiles, catering and other facilities will
be, is nearly finished. "This is the first time I have been in the Stadium
when the running track has been covered over too and that really does change
everything. Being there in the stand, looking out I could honestly picture
it, with a match in full swing and fans singing away. "It's going to be sad
to leave the Boleyn Ground, I personally have so many special memories of
the place but I know what this move will do for the Club and I'm genuinely
excited about seeing the Stadium fully transformed. I think we are going to
have a ground that we can be really proud to call home."
As work began on the floodlight towers, the steel frame for the halo that
surrounds the base of the Stadium has been completed. This structure will
contain 96 turnstiles, 33 catering outlets and close to 1,000 toilets. Time
lapse cameras have captured footage of the work undertaken to complete the
halo's steel frame as well as many other elements of the Stadium's
transformation you can view all the progress here.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam hoping for injury improvement
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce is targeting a stronger squad and an improved performance at
Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday
16.02.2015
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce is expecting several familiar faces
back to bolster his battle-weary squad for Sunday's big London derby with
Tottenham Hotspur. The likes of James Collins, Winston Reid and Diego Poyet
are set to return to training this week as Big Sam plots a repeat of last
season's unforgettable 3-0 at White Hart Lane. He will also certainly be
hoping that no more of the squad that were knocked out of the FA Cup at West
Bromwich Albion on Saturday will be missing, following Morgan Amalfitano's
red card and subsequent three-game suspension. "We've got a good recovery
period now," the manager explained. "We'll have our usual post-game routine
and then it's the big derby on Sunday against Spurs. We'll have some of our
injured players back to bolster the squad, which will help, and hopefully
we'll bounce straight back at Tottenham. "Alex Song was playing his third
game in six days on Sunday so he was fatiguing and Diafra Sakho is another
player we have to look after due to his back problem. We brought them off
early on Saturday when we were 3-0 down so they could be ready for Sunday."
The exertions of three games in just shy of six days evidently took their
toll on the Hammers, who were second best for much of the fifth-round tie at
the Hawthorns. After battling draws at home to Manchester United last Sunday
and away to Southampton last Wednesday, Big Sam felt some of his players
were more than a little jaded. "It was a game too far for us based on our
Premier League fixtures over the past week. They didn't give us the right
opportunity to go to West Brom and play better to try and win the tie. It
was a game too far for us and we can see that in the players. As hard as
they wanted to get through, their energy levels couldn't get them there.
"The players have given everything in a short space of time but it wasn't
good enough on Saturday. The FA Cup is gone and we wanted it to go as far as
we could but if we hadn't had the Premier League fixtures we would have
given a better account of ourselves."
Due to the game being an FA Cup tie, the Claret and Blue Army's numbers were
swelled to some 5,500 and they made their presence felt from the off. Sadly,
it was to turn out to be a disappointing day for them and everyone else
connected to the Club. When fans are happy they cheer and applaud you and
say how well you've done and when they're not so happy they show their
disappointment. My professional job as a manager is to get the players out
on the pitch to entertain the supporters as much as we can, which is what
we've done for 80 or 90 per cent of the season. We now have to try to bounce
back as quickly as possible and finish the season strongly."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
On this day - 17 February
WHUFC.com
West Ham recorded an important win over London rivals Chelsea on this day in
1996
17.02.2015
Classic match
Chelsea 1-2 West Ham United
Premier League
17 February 1996
West Ham United arrived at Stamford Bridge having been humbled 3-0 at
Division One side Grimsby Town in an FA Cup fourth-round replay in their
previous fixture - missing out on a potential fifth-round meeting with
Chelsea. However, Harry Redknapp's Hammers turned things around by pulling
off a stunning Premier League victory over the Blues in west London. With
Julian Dicks playing in a central defensive role, West Ham stormed to their
fourth consecutive Premier League win, despite falling behind to Gavin
Peacock's 13th-minute opener.
Dicks himself headed in the equaliser just after the hour mark before
midfielder Danny Williamson completed the turnaround with 18 minutes
remaining, silencing the majority of the 25,252-strong crowd inside the
three-sided Stamford Bridge.
Complete record - 17 February
1923 West Ham United 0-0 Barnsley (Division Two)
1934 Grimsby Town 1-1 West Ham United (Division Two)
1951 Sheffield United 1-1 West Ham United (Division Two)
1962 Leicester City 2-2 West Ham United (Division One)
1964 Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-2 West Ham United (Division One)
1968 Stoke City 0-3 West Ham United (FA Cup)
1973 West Ham United 2-1 West Bromwich Albion (Division One)
1996 Chelsea 1-2 West Ham United (Premier League)
2001 Sunderland 0-1 West Ham United (FA Cup)
Played 9, Won 5, Drawn 4, Lost 0, Scored 14, Conceded 6
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham deny 'Sam sacked' rumours
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 17th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have denied speculation that manager Sam Allardyce has been fired
today. Rumours emerged this afternoon that suggested the 60-year-old had
been given his marching orders following a disagreement with the club's
owners. However a club spokesman told KUMB this afternoon that as far as he
was aware, there was no truth whatsoever to the speculation. Earlier today
Allardyce met co-owner David Gold at Chadwell Heath to discuss a number of
matters regarding the squad and recruitment. The manager is believed to
have been particularly disappointed at the decision to sign Brazilian
striker Nene, which is one of the matter said to have been discussed. Within
hours of the meeting ending, it was claimed that Allardyce had been fired
following further disagreements regarding player policy. However West Ham
have since denied the rumours, with the spokesman insisting that Allardyce
remains in situ at the club. Less than 48 hours earlier a group of fans
accosted co-owner David Sullivan in the car park at West Bromwich Albion to
demand the dismissal of Allardyce, who is nearing the end of his two-year
contract at the club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nene trains with West Ham
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 17th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Free agent Nene enjoyed a training session with his new team mates at
Chadwell Heath this morning. The 33-year-old is on the verge of joining West
Ham on a short-term contract and trained with the rest of the squad at the
club's training complex today. Nene, who paused to sign autographs and have
pictures taken with fans after the session is expected to be offered a
contract until the end of the season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kouyate rushed to hospital after training ground accident
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 17th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Cheik Kouyate has been taken to hospital for tests after suffering an arm
injury during training at Chadwell Heath this morning. The Senegal
international fell awkwardly during a session at Chadwell Heath this morning
and it is suspected that he may have broken either his arm or wrist.
Kouyate, who had played West Ham's last two matches as an emergency centre
half could now be out of action for several weeks. He joins fellow
midfielder Morgan Amalfitano - who yesterday received a three-match
suspension for his dismissal at West Brom on Saturday - on the sidelines.
Fortunately for Sam Allardyce, both Winston Reid and James Collins, who we
revealed earlier this morning is poised to land a new contract, are expected
to return in time for the short trip to Tottenham on Sunday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham look to Nene to solve striker problems
Last Updated: 17/02/15 1:22pm
SSN
Former Paris Saint-Germain forward Nene is undergoing a medical ahead of a
potential move to West Ham, the Press Association understands.
The 33-year-old is available on a free transfer after leaving Qatar side
Al-Gharafa in January and would help ease the injury concerns of Hammers
manager Sam Allardyce following a long-term injury to club-record signing
Andy Carroll. West Ham confirmed on Friday that Carroll will miss the
remainder of the season as he requires surgery on a knee ligament injury
suffered in the 0-0 draw at Southampton last week.
Allardyce can call upon Carlton Cole and summer signings Enner Valencia and
Diafra Sakho in attack but co-chairman David Sullivan confirmed they were
looking to sign an attacking player who is a free agent. Nene fits that
category and has a decent scoring record in Spain and France, where his 21
goals in 35 Ligue 1 games for PSG saw him finish joint-top goalscorer in
2011-12 along with Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud, who played for
Montpellier at the time.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
REPORT ON THE FIRST MEETING OF WHUFC LGBT SUPPORTERS GROUP
By Iain Dale 17 Feb 2015 at 16:17
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Peter Scrivener
On a very cold Wednesday evening in January a group of 12 people arrived at
Upton Park for a meeting, no one really knew what to expect, no one knew
what was going to happen but we knew we were all there for the same
reason-to support and play a part in establishing a West Ham United LGBT
Supporters Group.
The beginnings of the group began after Jim Dolan set up a Twitter account
in the hope of bringing together other LGBT West Ham supporters-not for the
sake of stamping our feet and waving great big pink flags all over the
ground but more so to have a presence, for people to know that there were
others out there. In a very short space of time the Twitter group gained
hundreds of followers and caught the attention of both West Ham United and
the Gay Football Supporters Network who both expressed interest in making
the group 'official'. After an initial meeting between Jim, the GFSN and
West Ham to establish the roots and purpose of the group invites sent out to
those who had expressed an interest in being part of the Supporters Group to
attend yesterday's meeting.
After introductions and teas and coffees (and biscuits…the biscuits were
nice!) we went round the room and everyone had the chance to talk about why
they were there, why this was important to them and what they wanted from
the group. It was so positive to hear everyone wanting the same from the
group-to have a presence, to show others that there are LGBT West Ham fans
out there and to help shape the changing image of the club as it goes
through a big period of transition and, of course, the move to our new
stadium.
It's really important to highlight just how great West Ham have been in
supporting the group. James, our contact at West Ham, has been pivotal in
getting things moving and the clubs commitment to making the group work has
been excellent-not least because of the amazing view we had of the pitch
from the meeting room! The club have been developing a great new platform
for their website which will make it far more interactive for supporters to
get involved and, although we can't say too much about this right now, the
Club want us to be at the forefront of the launch when it happens. The
atmosphere of the meeting was summed up perfectly when a member of the group
commented "West Ham have been so supportive and they're giving us such a
great platform from which to launch-we need to take this opportunity with
both hands and run with it"
Soon we will be polling for a new name for the group and there were some
strong suggestions made during the meeting, the GSFN are going to be making
contact with everyone who has registered interest in the group with
information about electing Chairs and a Secretary. We are aiming for an
official launch soon and once a date is confirmed West Ham have expressed
some keenness to get as many people to attend as possible for a great
pitch-side photo-it will be a great way to support the launch and will give
us the chance to show all the other Supporters Groups how it's done-to
facilitate as many people attending as possible it is likely the launch will
coincide with a home game fixture.
Anyone wanting to know more about the group or wishing to join can do so by
checking out the groups Twitter @Prideofirons which is being updated
regularly with news and information or you can visit out facebook page
www.facebook.com/prideofirons.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SEEING THE LIGHT
By Brian Williams 17 Feb 2015 at 08:00
West Ham Till I Die
I hate early kick-offs. I'm no great lover of BT's television coverage
either. Put the two together and I am not a happy Hammer.
I'm not blaming Saturday's abject surrender at the Hawthorns entirely on the
fact the game started at 12.45, but it certainly didn't help. Rarely does
West Ham play well when it has barely rubbed the sleep from its eyes – which
is bad news when you consider our next two games kick off at noon and 12.45.
There was a time I used to follow snooker quite closely (this was the time
when the leading players weren't all so young they could have been my
grandchildren). Like most of the UK, I was desperate for Jimmy White to win
the world title at least once. And I'm convinced he would have done it if
all his frames had been played in the hours of darkness.
Some things are just not meant to be done in the morning, and playing
snooker is one of them. Jimmy was brilliant when the sun had set, but the
hours of daylight clearly didn't suit him. Perhaps that's why Count Dracula
never excelled at the game.
I will concede that 12.45 isn't technically the morning, but in footballing
terms it might just as well be. That's why any game that starts before 3pm
is regarded as an early kick-off.
To be honest, West Ham would play all their games later still if I had my
way. We all know the Hammers play better under lights – even if the stats
don't always tell the same story.
In our Saturday–Tuesday grind of the Championship in 2011/12 we had five
home games that kicked off at 7.45 – and we didn't win a single one of them.
Four draws and a defeat against Ipswich produced a miserable return from a
possible 15 points. On top of that, there were two games in the twilight
zone. The 5.20 starts saw us beat Derby 3–1 and draw 3–3 with Birmingham in
a real rollercoaster of an affair. Those old fashioned 3 o'clock kick-offs,
however, were really good for us. Played 11; won 8; lost 2; drew 1. Goals
for: 26. Goals against: 13. Points: 25.
Since being back in the Premier League we have won a few and lost a few,
none more painfully of course than when Tottenham came from behind to snatch
victory in the dying seconds with that wonder goal from Gareth Bale two
years ago.
Yet who needs ice-cold statistics when your heart tells you something
different? Every Hammer knows that floodlights lift Upton Park out of the
gloom and transform it into a theatre. You get a different crowd at evening
kick-offs – not quite the uncompromising support of an away game, but
certainly more vocal than the lunchtime crowd. There's a totally different
feel about the whole experience. The team simply plays better.
Fancy a few random facts about floodlighting? Of course you do! West Ham
first played under lights at Upton Park in April 1953, when we beat
Tottenham 2–1 in a friendly. At that stage floodlighting was still
considered too unreliable for League games.
The lights did famously fail more than 40 years later, but that was down to
skulduggery rather than technical problems. We had just come back from 2–0
down against Palace to equalise in the 60th minute when the ground was
plunged into darkness. No one could find a shilling for the meter, which
meant the game had to be abandoned and a crooked betting syndicate based in
the Far East which had gone for the draw cleaned up.
Arnold Hills, the father of West Ham, experimented with floodlighting when
he founded Thames Ironworks FC back in 1895. The first night game took place
nine days before Christmas. Apparently, there were 10 lights, each said to
have the power of 2,000 candles and the ball was dipped in a bucket of
whitewash beforehand.
We've all got our favourite game under lights. There were those classic
encounters under the floodlights at Upton Park back in the 70s and 80s
against European sides with exotic names like Ararat Yerevan, Dinamo Tbilisi
and Politehnica Timisoara. More recently there was that 4–0 thrashing of Man
Utd in the snow when Jonathan Spector played like Pelé. And there was the
2–0 victory in the second leg of the play-off semi-final against Ipswich
that took us to the Millennium Stadium – blimey, the ground was rocking that
night.
My favourite game under lights? That was a League Cup tie against the
all-conquering Liverpool. It was 1988 – almost half a lifetime ago now – but
I can still picture the goals as if the game were played yesterday. More
interestingly, perhaps, I recall the feeling of total confidence that we
would win.
This was Liverpool, right? They were the reigning champions. And, back in
those days, the big boys didn't put out weakened teams in Cup games – they
wanted to win. In the League, we were deep in relegation trouble. Even so,
well before we took our seats in the West Stand I just knew we were going to
triumph that night. It wasn't hope – it was absolute certainty. A rare
sensation for any West Ham supporter, I admit. But it's a fantastic feeling
when it happens.
My optimism was well founded. With Alan Devonshire playing brilliantly on
the flank and Liam Brady demonstrating all his old skill in midfield, we
took the Scousers apart. The first goal was truly sensational. I was in line
with Paul Ince when he hit the volley from the edge of the box – if he'd
leapt much higher he would have been considered a danger to passing aircraft
– and then struck the ball as sweetly as any ball has been struck before or
since. Minutes later we were two up – Ince again, this time with his head.
The boy was clearly destined to be a West Ham legend. It was obvious to
anyone with eyes to see that only by doing something sensationally stupid
would he be denied his rightful place in the pantheon of Upton Park greats.
(Oh, I don't know what exactly – being photographed in another club's shirt,
perhaps? But who'd be enough of a prat to do that?)
Kenny Dalglish's team pulled one back from the penalty spot, but my faith
waivered not one jot, scintilla or iota. (To be honest, I'm not sure what
that adds up to in real money – but, take my word for it, I kept the faith.)
Then, in the second half, we restored our two-goal lead courtesy of
Liverpool's international defender Steve Staunton, who deftly headed an
aimless David Kelly cross into his own net. And, as the red wall formed
while Tony Gale lined up a free kick, I was utterly sure this would be the
crowning glory of a fabulous performance. Up, over – and in. 4–1. What a
truly magical night!
Right then, let's forget all this early kick-off nonsense and start a
petition or something to ensure the mighty WHU only ever comes out at night.
Of course, somebody in authority may want to see some evidence to back up
the case with some hard evidence, which is where you come in. I'm happy to
open any formal proceedings with the Liverpool game, but I'll need some back
up. So, what was your favourite game under lights? And why? In the immortal
words of Delia, let's be havin' you …
PS I'd just like to thank Liddy publicly for her recent review of Nearly
Reach The Sky – A Farewell to Upton Park. It was a brilliant piece of
writing. I know I hardly need remind WHTID regulars, but Lids is a diamond.
This site is very lucky to have her. BW.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Cheikou Kouyate rushed to hospital during training with suspected
broken arm
12:37, 17 February 2015 By Ed Malyon
The midfielder has been outstanding this season for the Hammers but could
now be out for a period after a training injury
The Mirror
West Ham fear Cheikou Kouyate could miss a chunk of their season after he
was rushed to hospital during training. The Senegalese midfielder is thought
to have broken his arm in an accident at the Hammers' Chadwell Heath HQ.
Since signing in the summer, the Senegalese international has established
himself as a regular in Sam Allardyce's side, starting 17 Premier League
games in midfield and also at centre-half. The 25-year-old has also scored
goals against both Arsenal and Manchester United, and last featured in
Saturday's FA Cup mauling at the hands of West Bromwich Albion. While thy
are not yet sure on Kouyate's prognosis, the utility man is extremely
doubtful for this weekend's London derby at White Hart Lane.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ALLARDYCE SACKING STORY DENIED!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 17, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Rogue stories that Sam Allardyce has been sacked as West Ham United boss are
"100 per cent untrue." The story appeared on websites this afternoon and was
taken down almost as quickly when the record was put straight, ClaretandHugh
received telephone calls claiming the manager had parted company with the
club but with with co-chairman David Sullivan at his 97 year old mother's
hospital bedside it seemed seriously unlikely. And a few moments ago a high
level source told us: "That is 100 per cent untrue. Sam is still in his
job." However, as this site reported earlier today the 60 year old boss now
looks to be in his last few weeks as the Irons chief with the hunt for a
replacement underway.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Simeone dream as Irons start boss hunt
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 17, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have rubbished speculation that Sam Allardyce – as the world's 13th
best paid boss – receives a bigger salary than Atletico Madrid's Diego
Simeone. And the reason they know that is because they are currently
scouring the world looking for a replacement for the manager at the end of
the season. The Daily Mail's Adrian Durham wrote this morning that Allardyce
earned more than Simeone but in one phone call from ClaretandHugh a top
Irons insider said: "Diego is on 5million euros plus huge bonuses. There is
also a 4m buyout on his contract, that goes to 12m shortly "West Ham would
obviously want Diego but the truth is that he really wants Manchester City
or Bayern Munich and thus we are not an easy sell!" The Irons intend to
spend the next eight weeks seeing who is available and whether West Ham
interests those who interest us. A Hammers source told us exclusively: "All
the clubs that sacked managers hired the 'usual suspects 'We are scouring
the world. Wed love Simeone, but its 100/1 shot." Meanwhile the reliable
ExWHUemployee has tweeted this afternoon: "Club already lining up potential
Sam replacements
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam: The future seems clear!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 17, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
You would need to be rather lacking in perception not to understand the way
things are going at Upton Park right now. A season so rich with promise at
one point has turned sour and as always the full media attention is turning
onto the manager and his future. The Mail and TalkSport's Adrian Durham is
the latest from the media mob to put the boot in. Nothing is ever written in
the tablets of stones required by many fans but the smoke signals coming out
of the Boleyn seem pretty clear.
Sam Allardyce is facing the dodgiest moment of his Hammers reign – change it
seems to me is now the name of the game. My personal reading of the
situation is that the only issue remaining is whether the club can find a
manager they consider an upgrade on the current boss. If they are successful
in doing so, I believe Sam Allardyce's time in charge will come to an end
this summer. There's a massive atmosphere of disappointment across the club
right now and although 13 weeks is an eternity in football it's hard to see
too much changing in the time left. There's much muttering and murmuring
going on, the like of which many haven't heard previously. This is NOT a
"For or against Sam article" however much some will want to pretend it is.
It's simply that the signs right now seem clear! Change is on the agenda
with the one important proviso that precisely the right person is found to
lead the Irons into their last Boleyn season and a new era beyond. Let's put
it another way: No ClaretandHugh Poll is required!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold: "There has to be a response"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 17, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold insists the team can bounce back from the shocking events of West
Brom with a top display against Spurs. And he's aware too that the climate
among the fans can turn as quickly as a goal against the run of play. He
said: "There are plenty of reasons we can use for the defeat – injuries, too
many games in the week and all the rest of it but at the end of it all we
are out of the FA Cup and that is a massive disappointment. "We really do
need to see the team pick itself up and produce a top performance against
Spurs – for the sake of us all there has to be a response. "Pride has been
hurt and of course other events took place which are deeply disappointing so
it's important we have a big end to the troubles with a top performance. "I
think we can give a top account of ourselves. It's Spurs so nobody will need
any winding-up. We have everybody bar Andy Carroll fit and there can be no
feeling sorry for ourselves."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Good news at last for Hammers
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 17, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham will be back to full strength for the trip to White Hart Lane on
Sunday – Andy Carroll excepted. Much has been made in the national
newspapers today that Winston Reid will return – possibly against his next
club. But we have learned that everybody is now fit as the Hammers look to
win back the fans after the shocking defeat in the fifth round of the FA Cup
at the Hawthorns. Alex Song has recovered from a knock and James Collins –
along with Reid – is over a hamstring problem. That West Brom defeat has
heaped pressure on manager Sam Allardyce to come away with a result on
Sunday following a run of league results which has seen the team collect one
win from the last nine. A source told ClaretandHugh: "Spurs are right on top
of their game at the moment but everybody here is looking for a response
after last weekend."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ex-PSG forward Nene has medical ahead of West Ham move, report says
ESPN
ESPN FC's Mark Donaldson and Tommy Smyth lament Andy Carroll's bad luck as
he is excepted to miss the rest of the season with a torn knee ligament.
Former Paris Saint-Germain forward Nene is undergoing a medical ahead of a
potential move to West Ham, Press Association Sport reported. The
33-year-old Brazilian is available on a free transfer after leaving Qatar
outfit Al-Gharafa in January and would be a welcome addition to Sam
Allardyce's squad following a knee injury to club-record signing Andy
Carroll. The Hammers confirmed on Friday that Carroll will miss the
remainder of the season as he is set to have surgery on a knee ligament
injury suffered in a goalless draw at Southampton last week. Allardyce has
Carlton Cole and summer signings Enner Valencia and Diafra Sakho as his
options in attack at the moment but co-chairman David Sullivan confirmed
that West Ham were scouring the globe in search of free agents who they
could sign outside of the transfer window.
Nene fits that bill and would bring a proven track record of scoring goals,
both in Spain and France, where his 21 goals in 35 Ligue 1 games for PSG saw
him finish joint-top goalscorer in 2011-12 along with Olivier Giroud -- then
of Montpellier. Fitness may be an issue as West Ham would want someone who
will be available sooner rather than later but, having only ended his spell
in the Middle East last month, Nene should not require too much time to get
up to speed
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bookies slash odds on Sam Allardyce leaving West Ham amid David Moyes and
Slaven Bilic speculation
Simon Osborn for Metro.co.ukTuesday 17 Feb 2015 5:11 pm
Metro.co.uk
Bookies have slashed the odds on Sam Allardyce leaving West Ham after a
flood of money was placed on Big Sam being the next Premier League manager
to leave his job. The former Bolton boss's odds were cut from 25-1 to 6-1
after punters reacted to comments made by Hammers co-owner David Sullivan.
'That is 100 per cent not true,' Sullivan said when asked if Allardyce had
been offered a new four-year deal at Upton Park. 'We won't even look at it
until either there are a few games left or when the season is over.' The
comment ramped up speculation that the 60-year-old could leave at the end of
the season, with the Daily Telegraph reporting David Moyes and Hammers old
boy Slaven Bilic are both contenders to replace him in east London. Bilic
spent 18 months at Upton Park as a West Ham player after being signed by
Harry Redknapp and still holds a strong affection for the club, while Moyes
currently earns less than half of Allardyce's £3million-per-year contract
with Real Sociedad in Spain. 'This is the strongest Premier League season
West Ham has had in years but their performance in the 4-0 loss against West
Brom on Saturday was abhorrent in the eyes of the fans,' said Michael
Bowers, Football Trader for Betfair. 'This afternoon we've seen a huge
flurry of bets and have been forced to cut Sam from 25/1 to 6/1 and bets are
still coming in at that price.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfer target Nene 'undergoing medical before signing short-term
deal at club'
Vaishali Bhardwaj for Metro.co.ukTuesday 17 Feb 2015 4:56 pm
Metro.co.uk
West Ham are moving closer to finding a replacement for injured striker Andy
Carroll, with former Paris Saint-Germain winger Nene reportedly undergoing a
medical at the club on Tuesday. According to The Evening Standard, the
33-year-old Brazilian has arrived in London to go through the medical tests
before signing a deal with the Hammers until the end of the season. Nene,
who can play in a variety of attacking positions, is currently without a
club after becoming a free agent following his departure from Qatari side Al
Gharafa in January. West Ham see the Brazilian as a replacement for Carroll,
who was ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury he sustained
during the east London outfit's goalless draw at Southampton last week.
Should Nene finalise a move to Upton Park in the coming days, he would bring
his record of 36 goals in 79 games for PSG with him to the club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers handed major boost after Kouyate injury scare
16:21 17 February 2015
London24
Jack Green
West Ham's Cheikhou Kouyate has been given the all clear after suffering an
injury that was feared to be a broken arm. The Senegalese midfielder fell
awkwardly during training and was taken to hospital for a medical
assessment. The Hammers have confirmed, however, that the 25-year-old is not
seriously injured, and he is expected to be ready for Sunday's clash with
Tottenham at White Hart Lane. "Cheikhou Kouyate departed training early on
Tuesday after landing awkwardly on his arm, but has been given the all-clear
to train on Wednesday after going to hospital for a medical assessment," a
statement on the club website said. West Ham fans received more good news
today as James Collins, Winston Reid, Diego Poyet and Matt Jarvis all
returned to training. Winston Reid's return to fitness is particularly
important. The defender – who was linked to Tottenham and Arsenal during the
January transfer window – has missed the past three matches with a hamstring
injury. Kouyate is a natural central midfielder, but he has been filling in
at centre back in Reid and Collins' absence.
He has turned in some admirable performances despite being played out of
position, and he even got on the scoresheet in the 1-1 draw with Manchester
United.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham target David Moyes and Slaven Bilic to replace Sam Allardyce
Co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold will check on duo's availability
with current manager under fire and out of contract in the summer
The Telegraph
By Matt Law
4:18PM GMT 17 Feb 2015
West Ham United will make checks on the availability of David Moyes and
Slaven Bilic as the club line up possible replacements for manager Sam
Allardyce. But West Ham co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold face a
battle to convince Moyes to leave Real Sociedad after just six months, with
the former Manchester United manager enjoying life in Spain and already
planning for next season. Allardyce's contract is due to expire at the end
of the season and Sullivan has already publicly insisted than any
negotiations over a new deal will not happen before the summer. Some West
Ham sources rate Allardyce's chances of being handed a new contract as low
as five per cent, despite the fact the club are eighth in the Premier League
table, eight points behind fourth-placed Southampton.
What is clear is that Sullivan and Gold have started a process of carefully
assessing their options ahead of deciding whether or not to let Allardyce
go, with Moyes and Bilic the men of particular interest to the West Ham
chiefs. Moyes has been viewed as the perfect profile of manager to take over
from Allardyce by Upton Park insiders since the Scotsman was sacked by
Manchester United last April. The 51-year-old is still greatly admired for
the fine work he did during 11 years at Everton, during which time the
Merseyside club qualified for the Champions League and regularly challenged
for a top-four place.
Sullivan and Gold believe West Ham will be capable of similar achievements
once the club make their highly-anticipated move into the Olympic Stadium.
Moyes was appointed Real Sociedad manager in November and signed an 18-month
contract with the Spanish club, who are 12th in La Liga. His reported wages
of £1.5m-a-year are significantly less than the £3m-a-year Allardyce
currently earns at West Ham.
Associates of Moyes, however, insist he is extremely happy with his work and
life in Spain, and is currently making transfer plans for the summer with
Burnley striker Danny Ings a target.
Sociedad have already promised Moyes he will have money to spend and it will
take a big effort from Sullivan and Gold to convince him to leave Spain so
quickly. Bilic may be easier to tempt to Upton Park than Moyes, despite the
fact the former Croatia international is currently preparing for a Europa
League tie against Liverpool with Besiktas, who are top of the Turkish Super
League. Ex-defender Bilic spent 18 months at Upton Park as a West Ham player
after being signed by Harry Redknapp in January 1996 and still holds a
strong affection for the club. Despite the fact Bilic has managed Croatia
and now Besiktas, Sullivan and Gold will be wary of the fact the 46-year-old
has no experience of managing in the Premier League. Knocking Liverpool out
of the Europa League would certainly enhance his prospects.
Bilic himself has made it clear he would like to return to England as a
manager, saying: "Managing in the Premier League is a question I get asked,
not only about England - but mostly - and whatever you say, it sounds not
fair to someone. I really like it here at Besiktas, I like this job, it's a
massive club. "I'm enjoying it big time. But, of course, I would say that,
one day, I would be interested in England, of course I would. "I've been
there, I've played there, l liked it there - wherever I go there. Okay, I'm
not a huge star, but I feel people like me there and I spent my best years -
and not only in football - there. "It's also the Premier League. If we have
dinner, and there are big screens to watch, and there is no Turkish game,
then we watch Premier League. That is the league that is most followed."
Allardyce's future was put firmly back on the agenda at the weekend after
West Ham fans called on Sullivan to sack him following the club's 4-0 FA Cup
defeat to West Bromwich Albion. Tensions between Allardyce and Sullivan have
once again been highlighted by the club's bid to try to sign free agent
Nene. Sullivan has instigated the move for the Brazilian forward, just as he
won a tug of war with Allardyce to sign Diafra Sakho, who is West Ham's top
scorer this season and has been a huge success.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
Wednesday, February 18
Tuesday, February 17
Daily WHUFC News - 17th February 2015
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce is targeting a stronger squad and an improved performance at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday
16.02.2015
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce is expecting several familiar faces back to bolster his battle-weary squad for Sunday's big London derby with Tottenham Hotspur. The likes of James Collins, Winston Reid and Diego Poyet are set to return to training this week as Big Sam plots a repeat of last season's unforgettable 3-0 at White Hart Lane. He will also certainly be hoping that no more of the squad that were knocked out of the FA Cup at West Bromwich Albion on Saturday will be missing, following Morgan Amalfitano's red card and subsequent three-game suspension. "We've got a good recovery period now," the manager explained. "We'll have our usual post-game routine and then it's the big derby on Sunday against Spurs. We'll have some of our injured players back to bolster the squad, which will help, and hopefully we'll bounce straight back at Tottenham. "Alex Song was playing his third game in six days on Sunday so he was fatiguing and Diafra Sakho is another player we have to look after due to his back problem. We brought them off early on Saturday when we were 3-0 down so they could be ready for Sunday."
The exertions of three games in just shy of six days evidently took their toll on the Hammers, who were second best for much of the fifth-round tie at the Hawthorns. After battling draws at home to Manchester United last Sunday and away to Southampton last Wednesday, Big Sam felt some of his players were more than a little jaded. "It was a game too far for us based on our Premier League fixtures over the past week. They didn't give us the right opportunity to go to West Brom and play better to try and win the tie. It was a game too far for us and we can see that in the players. As hard as they wanted to get through, their energy levels couldn't get them there. "The players have given everything in a short space of time but it wasn't good enough on Saturday. The FA Cup is gone and we wanted it to go as far as we could but if we hadn't had the Premier League fixtures we would have given a better account of ourselves."
Due to the game being an FA Cup tie, the Claret and Blue Army's numbers were swelled to some 5,500 and they made their presence felt from the off. Sadly, it was to turn out to be a disappointing day for them and everyone else connected to the Club. "When fans are happy they cheer and applaud you and say how well you've done and when they're not so happy they show their disappointment. My professional job as a manager is to get the players out on the pitch to entertain the supporters as much as we can, which is what we've done for 80 or 90 per cent of the season. We now have to try to bounce back as quickly as possible and finish the season strongly."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Downing baffled by Baggies defeat
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing was bitterly disappointed to exit the FA Cup at West Brom on Saturday
15.02.2015
Stewart Downing was left to reflect on a bad day at the office for his West Ham United team after they were dumped out of the FA Cup by West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The Hammers suffered a 4-0 defeat to end a run which included a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Everton and a gritty display to see off Bristol City. They came unstuck at The Hawthorns on a day to forget and Downing was baffled as to where the poor display came from. "I don't know where to start to be honest," he admitted. "They were on top for most of the game. We didn't start great and once they got the goal, they sat back and it's hard to break them down. "It was one of those days when nothing went right for us. With the sending off too, it's a bad day at the office. "I couldn't really see this coming. They sit behind the ball and make it hard for you and the key is scoring first. If we had done, it's a different game as they have to come out and attack us.
"They can counter-attack off their two lads up front. It worked for them and for us we didn't get going really."
Most disappointing for Downing was throwing away the hard work to get to the last-16 stage, with a potential Wembley date starting to appear on the horizon. He continued: "We worked hard to get to this stage, so to go out like that is the worst thing about it. If you lose 1-0 or 2-0 and you've had a go then fair enough, but to lose four and it could have been five or six, nothing went right for us. "To sum it up, we missed chances, didn't pass the ball great and didn't defend the goals well so we didn't deserve anything. "Maybe having the two tough games this week had an effect, but this is the FA Cup. It's a chance to go to Wembley, so that alone should get you going. "We just didn't get out of the blocks and credit to West Brom, they got through so I wish them luck."
The midfielder says the Hammers still have plenty to play for this term, with European qualification still on their minds, He explained: "We have to concentrate on the league now, which has been the highlight of our season. We have to make sure we don't let it slip away because we've put in a lot of hard work to get to where we are at the minute. "We're still in the hunt for the European places, so Tottenham is a massive game. If we end up finishing tenth or eleventh, people won't look at the start of the season as being good. "We have to continue to do well. We're still in a healthy position, we've still got winnable games to come so Spurs is massive for us and we need to get a result." Downing concluded by offering his apologies to the 5,500 travelling fans. "We say sorry to the fans because the way we performed wasn't good enough," he said. Confidence was high after two good results, so I didn't see this coming. "It's a bad day at the office and I'm disappointed that we're out of the Cup."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loan round up
WHUFC.com
See how the six West Ham United loanees fared this weekend
16.02.2015
Tim Brown was awarded Man of the Match as Canvey Island drew with Grays Athletic on Saturday while Taylor Tombides was substituted after 77 minutes. The visitors started the better of the two sides however it was Canvey who took a first half lead through George Sykes.
Grays' pressure eventually took its toll as Manny Parry equalised from close range with just two minutes. In the dying seconds Brown made a fantastic save to deny Dumebi Dumaka and secure a valuable point.
Modibo Maiga played the full game as FC Metz lost 2-0 to Guingamp at the Stade Saint-Symphorien. The visitors took the lead in the 26 minute through striker Christophe Mandanne before Jeremy Pied doubled their advantage before half-time. The defeat sees Metz stay at the bottom of Ligue Un while Guingamp climb to eighth.
Sean Maguire was an unused substitute in Accrington Stanley's 2-1 win away at Southend United. Piero Mingoia volleyed Stanley ahead before Terry Gornell's lob doubled their lead. The Shrimpers hit back immediately from Barry Corr's header but it was too little too late.
Nathan Mavila played 88 minutes in Wealdstone's 2-1 away win at Staines Town. Michael Corcoran put the visitors ahead before Mavila's cross was tucked in by Watford loanee Luke O'Nien. After the break Elliott Buchanan pulled one back but Wealdstone held on for the three points.
Jaanai Gordon played the first 58 minutes of Chelmsford City's 2-0 defeat by Maidenhead United. The striker was replaced by Sam Gregory in the second half.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mediawatch - 16 February
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
16.02.2015
In The Sun (£), Stewart Downing says the Hammers must redeem themselves at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Describing the White Hart Lane clash as 'massive', the midfielder explains that it show whether the Hammers can bouce back swiftly.
Former Chelsea and Real Madrid man Lassana Diarra tells the Mirror he is hopeful that the Hammers will revive their interest in him come the Summer transfer window.
Talking to the Mail Online, the manager vows to end the campaign in entertaining fashion following Saturday's disappointing FA Cup exit.
In London 24, West Ham correspondent Dave Evans argues in this opinion piece that the team and not the management should have been the focus of the supporters' disappointment on Saturday.
Finally, Stevenage paper The Comet report that Academy graduate and former Hammer Jack Collison returned home to Shefford to coach young players recently.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Replica shirts update
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are pleased to update supporters on the Club's 2014/15 replica shirts
16.02.2015
Following the announcement of West Ham United's record sponsorship deal with Betway, the Club are pleased to provide supporters with further news on how they can obtain updated replica shirts. Supporters should note that all existing stock is to be rebranded, with Betway now to feature on all adult shirts and West Ham United Foundation on the junior equivalents to mirror the branding worn by the senior and Academy teams respectively. These will be in stock instore and online within the next few weeks. Additionally, both junior and adult supporters who have already purchased a 2014/15 replica shirt are welcome to get their shirt updated, free of charge, at any of the Club's four official stores. This will be possible from Tuesday 24 February, in the lead up to the Crystal Palace game. Please note that due to the volume of supporters present, updates cannot be made on a matchday at the Stadium Store from two hours prior to kick-off. Together, the Club and Betway have explored all avenues for the re-branding of the shirts through various suppliers as a new shirt could not be produced. The solution found is the best available and was chosen based on the needs of the players. Sourced from Norway, the shirt branding is composed from a durable and lightweight, high-performance material, providing full range of movement and comfort while on the pitch. While this solution is market leading, it is of course only temporary. The 2015/16 shirt has been designed in collaboration with Betway with branding engrained in the shirt's look to ensure it befits the Hammers' final season at the Boleyn Ground.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Three match ban for Amalfitano
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 16th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Morgan Amalfitano has been handed a three-match ban for his dismissal against West Brom on Saturday. The French winger was sent off having been on the field for just ten minutes against his old club, in West Ham's FA Cup mauling at the Hawthorns. Booked initially for a late challenge on Chris Brunt, Amalfitano was issued a straight red moments later for pushing Brunt in the face. Amalfitano, who joined West Ham in a cut-price deal last summer has made 22 appearances for West Ham this season, scoring twice. Prior to his red card on Saturday he was previously booked on two occaasions, against Man City and Newcastle (both at home).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Free agent in talks
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 16th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
David Sullivan has revealed that West Ham are in talks with a free agent. Sullivan, speaking to a KUMB source at West Brom on Saturday afternoon confirmed that a striker flew into London yesterday ahead of talks with view to a short-term contract. And according to the Mail this morning, that striker is 33-year-old former PSG star Nene, who had been out of contract since leaving Quataro outfit Al-Gharafa.
The 6' Brazilian began his career in South America back in 1999. He moved to Europe in 2003 to join Mallorca, with whom he stayed for just one season. Alaves snapped up the free kick specialist in the summer of 2004 - a club he went on to score 21 times for in 78 games. Thereafter he enjoyed spells with Celta (3 goal in 38 appearances), Monaco (19 in 63) and Espanyol (4 in 35). In 2010, Nene earned a dream move to Paris St Germain in a €5.5.million switch. His second year at the club saw his finish level with current Arsenal star Olivier Giroud as Ligue 1's top goalscorer. However after falling out with head coach Carlo Ancelotti he left France to join Al-Gharafa of Qatar for €4.5.million.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Disturbing new Sullivan video emerges (NSFW)
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 16th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
A new video showing West Ham fans encircling co-owner David Sullivan at the Hawthorns on Saturday has emerged. Sullivan, who left the game prior to the full time whistle was accosted by a number of middle-aged fans in the car park at the Hawthorns. And this new video, longer than the first video posted on KUMB at the weekend showed the club's co-owner defending himself from a barrage of abuse from angry fans.
"Why are you leaving early? Why are you f**king off early?" blasted one middle-aged man, as he stood confrontationally in front of the diminutive 66-year-old - as other fans shouted comments such as "get Fat Sam and Nolan out".
Then, as Sullivan left the scene to return to his car one fan repeatedly shouted the c-word. See the video (posted by user Cameron Spicer) for yourself below - please be prepared to hear liberal use of foul language.
http://www.kumb.com/story.php?id=128285
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lassana Diarra hoping West Ham rekindle transfer interest in the summer
Last Updated: 16/02/15 3:24pm
SSN
West Ham will consider a move for midfielder Lassana Diarra in the summer, but only if he becomes a free agent, Sky sources understand.
Diarra trained with the Hammers earlier this month but a contract dispute with his club Lokomotiv Moscow ended any hopes of them signing him. The former France international claims he was fired by the club but Lokomotiv Moscow will not let him register for someone else until they reach a resolution. West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has confirmed his desire to bring Diarra to Upton Park but will only do so if he is freed by his current employers. Diarra recently said of the dispute: "As long as the conflict is not sorted, FIFA forbid me to play so it's so frustrating. "What happened was that I got fired from a club and now I cannot play football. It's a crazy thing because I'm free. "Hopefully it can all be resolved and the deal with West Ham can be completed."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THE NIGHT WE TOOK THE P*** OUT OF TOTTENHAM
By Iain Dale 16 Feb 2015 at 17:20
West Ham Til I Die
Guest Post by Rome Hammer
On a hot Wednesday evening, September 2, 1981, I went to see Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United at White Hart Lane, a passionate affair and a real corker of a match. It was the second game of the 1981/2 Season. West Ham's opener, at home to Brighton the Saturday before, had been a dour game with neither side impressing in the 1-1 draw. West Ham's unsteady inauguration to the top flight, after the record-breaking promotion season—a season that John Lyall would later write as being his personal best—provoked the press to speculate on the Hammers' chances of survival. The mid-week derby, against the reigning FA Cup winners' and their international pack of flamboyant stars, such as Ricky Villa, Ray Clemence, Glen Hoddle and Steve Perryman, was to have provided a more trying task for the new boys from Upton Park.
I reached White Hart Lane at 7.30, fifteen minutes before kick-off, and managed to squeeze myself in amongst the heaving legions of West Ham fans already crammed into the stadium. I was lucky to secure a minuscule spot on a ledge right at the back of the terraces, from where I perched to view the game. The Park Lane stand that night was completely packed to the rafters with West Ham fans. The ground was crammed to breaking point; three sides swayed to the pre-match chants, while to our left stood Tottenham's new West Stand, nearly completed, gleaning, pristine and empty; but this deserted side didn't detract from the atmosphere. The morning after's newspapers gave that night's attendance as 41,200—200 more than the maximum official capacity allowed while Tottenham were doing up the ground.
West Ham's squad that season was more or less made up of the same sides that had won the FA Cup in 1980, reached the League Cup final and the quarter finals of the Cup Winners' Cup in 1981, and that which had set the record breaking total of 66 points in winning the old Second Division Championship, the last season that two points were awarded for a win. By today's standards West Ham would have won promotion with 94 points, which, I believe, would still be a post-war points record. West Ham's line up that night was: Phil Parkes; Ray Stewart, Frank Lampard, Billy Bonds, Alvin Martin; Alan Devonshire, Geoff Pike, Paul Allen, Jimmy Neighbour; David Cross and Paul Goddard with Bobby Barnes as substitute. Missing was the celestial talent of Trevor Brooking who was still not match fit after injury.
Before the match, two middleweight boxers saluted the crowd from the pitch. One was Mark Kaylor, an ardent West Ham supporter who fought in his team's colours, and the other was Jimmy Ellis, who was billed on the night as being a Tottenham fan. The terraces greeted them with a deafening roar and the chanting grew ever louder. These two were to fight at Wembley Arena on September 15 with Kaylor winning.
The kick-off pushed the highly partisan crowd to fever pitch and an even greater din and commotion ensued; the atmosphere that night was so electric that London's energy demand could have been supplied direct from the ground.
When David Cross scored at the Paxton End of the ground in the first half, the West Ham end erupted in unconstrained jubilation; the crowd swayed as one and I was nearly swept down the terraces in the reeling revelry. It was a happy claret and blue contingent that belted out "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles" throughout the half-time ceremonies rendering the on-the-pitch presentations inaudible; but none of West Ham's choirboys could have imagined the second half's fanfare. It was a shame that Eammon Andrews was not there to present 'This is Your Life" to the man-of-match: the indomitable David Cross, or "Psycho" as he was fondly known. For it was his goals that trounced Spurs that night, four in all, the third, a spectacular right-footed volley from a Geoff Pike cross. Cross later claimed that that goal, and the his mercurial performance that night was one of the best of his career, and in appreciation of his efforts shirts soon appeared in the East End emblazoned with: Tottenham 0 Psycho 4.
And what joy there was on the terraces. The roof shook, the stanchions rattled, and the terraces rippled to the dancing of "Knees Up Mother Brown." Not a squeak was heard from the despondent Tottenham followers as they slunk off early. The Shelf had been shelved. For the last fifteen minutes the West Ham fans sang out "We took the piss again, Tottenham, Tottenham!" When the game finished rapturous applause of unbounded joy exploded from the West Ham supporters. The mile and a half walk back to Seven Sisters tube station was to see some skirmishing as the Tottenham devotees took offence at not only the result, but also to the constant chanting of "We took the piss again." That night at Seven Sisters Station the Tube's tunnels echoed all over London with the ecstatic rejoicing of the boys (and girls) in claret and blue. West Ham were back and no-one would speculate further on the chances of the Irons going back down that season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SHOCKING VIDEO OF DAVID SULLIVAN THREATENED BY FANS
By Sean Whetstone 16 Feb 2015 at 12:14
West Ham till I Die
The full shocking video of the abuse suffered by West Ham chairman David Sullivan at the hands of a minority of West Ham bullies has emerged on youtube. Judging the age of these so called fans they should know better and their vile behaviour does not represent the club or the majority of our fan base.
Sullivan looks visibly shocked at one stage and raises his hands in defence when he thinks he might get hit by one angry fan.
Full Transcript
Fan voice 1: It's not your fault, it's not your fault.
Fan voice 2: Don't talk to me, I'm a season-ticket holder.
Sullivan: Who else is going to take over?
Fan voice 2: I'm a season-ticket holder, don't talk to me like that.
Why are you leaving early? Why are you f***ing leaving early?
Fan voice 3: Why are you f***ing off early?
Sullivan: Why are you?
Fan voice 2: Because I've got to travel back on the f***ing train, not a f***ing Rolls Royce or a f***ing plane. We're fans.
Sullivan: Look, I'm a fan. I've never left early all season. That was the worst performance all season.
Fan voice 2: Can you give us something back though?
Fan voice 4: Does Karren Brady take it up the muffled.
Fan voice 2: Can we just forget it and instead of palming it all of can we have some answers?
Sullivan: I'll shake your hand, shake your hand, shake your hand.
Fan voice 5: I've been a West Ham supporter for 40 f***ing years. Why aren't you f***ing doing something?
Fan voice 2: Can we have some answers?
Fan voice 4: Does Karren Brady take it up the a***?
Fan voice 2: Can we have some answers please?
Sullivan: That's not big and it's not clever.
Fan voice 6: That's not funny.
Fan voice 2: Can we have some answers? Proper answers, not on Twitter, not on Twitter.
Fan voice 7: Listen mate, we was up at four o'clock this morning…
Fan voice 8: Get Big Sam out!
Fan voice 9: Sam out!
Fan voice 7: We got caught in a crash on the motorway, someone died, someone died, and we got here 25 minutes gone, and we're leaving 25 minutes to go. We've had it with him.
Sullivan: I've never left early.
Fan voice 7: We've had it with him.
Sullivan: All season it was the worst performance.
Fan voice 10: Fair play to you, fair play to you.
Fan voice 11: West Brom, they're going down mate, get rid of that fat c***!
Fan voice 12: Fair play David!
Fan voice 13: Fair play!
Fan voice 14: You're a c***!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stewart Downing: Tottenham are "no better" than West Ham in race for European qualification
22:30, 15 February 2015 By Mike Walters
The pair are go head-to-head at White Hart Lane on Sunday and Downing believes the Hammers can use their FA Cup setback as motivation
The Mirror
Stewart Downing believes West Ham's FA Cup flops can still finish above Tottenham and qualify for Europe. But after the feeble surrender at the Hawthorns, the England winger warned they must not allow six months of promise to evaporate into mid-table anonymity. Travelling fans booed off their team, but Sunday's derby at White Hart Lane offers West Ham a quick route to redemption. And Downing admitted: "If I'd paid a lot of money to come and watch that, I'd have felt the same way. "But if we get a good result against Tottenham, we can put it to bed and have a good finish to the season. "If you told the fans we get knocked out of the cup but finish in Europe, they will take that. "We owe Tottenham one, after they beat us in the last minute on the opening day of the season, and I don't accept they're going to finish above us. "They spent a lot of money and man-for-man I don't think they're any better than us. "We don't want to waste all the good work, and all the top teams we've beaten, over the first six months of the season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DS suffered abuse as he rushed to Mum's side
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
EXCLUSIVE
By Hugh Southon
David Sullivan left West Bromwich Albion early on Saturday evening because his 97 year old mother Thelma was lying critically ill in a hospital bed. West Ham United consumes the club's co chairman and and chief shareholder but he was desperate on this occasion to get away to be by Mum's bedside. David himself has been through relatively recent quadruple heart by-pass surgery and has been told by his doctors to avoid all stress. He had parked up in an area which didn't open until an hour after the game and thus faced the walk to his car which was interrupted by a baying mob of "supporters" invading his space as he tried to cope with a desperate Irons performance and a determination to get to his mother's side as soon as possible. His anguish was multiplied by the fact that most doctors believe that Thelma's life span can now be measured in days. These are the things supporters don't see apparently believing that because they have been fans for 40 years they have the right to make a man's life a living hell.
David Sullivan – despite the issues surrounding his mother and heading a familiy with the domestic problems we all encounter – is a 24/7 Irons workaholic. He admits privately that the club is not a business but his "passion and hobby" and every inquiry I have ever made of him has been met with the sort of courtesy and respect he attempted to show the people who cornered him
Today he remains shocked by the real anger felt by some supporters towards himself and long term business partner David Gold. And although he understands it's a minority they were VERY vociferous ! However, the younger supporters, not heard on the filming on the fan sites, strongly disagreed with what was going on. Our thoughts are with the Sullivan family and Thelma this evening!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Macari apologises for spell in charge
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Former Hammers manager Lou Macari questioned Sam Allardyce's excuse for the FA Cup exit yesterday via twitter "Big Sam says fixture list and early kick off lost them the game v WBA, Whats that all about?"
Claret and Hugh's own Nigel Kahn replied to Macari stating "It's called deflecting criticism, To be honest Sam is raising you in the list of West Ham managers. You are not in bottom 3 now"
Lou Macari replied to Nigel saying "Apologize for not doing better, did sign Ludo Miklosko, Ian Bishop and Trevor Morley for £800,000 pounds and sold Mark Ward £750,000″
Lou Macari was West Ham manager between 1989 and 1990 managing just 38 games with 14 wins, 12 draws and 12 losses. His win rate was 36.85%.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Warning: Fan abuse helped Davids quit Birmingham
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Were it not for the fact that David Sullivan and David Gold love West Ham for their lives I could see them walking away from Upton Park after the events of Saturday evening. AND NO I AM NOT BEING MELODRAMATIC !
History tells us many things and the type of mob rule that saw David Sullivan cornered and abused outside the Hawthorns was precisely the type of behaviour that helped lead to the duo's departure from Birmingham City. That was a year on from relegation in 2005-06 when the Birmingham fans went completely crazy, tearing down the goal posts, abusing the players and owners in one of the worst examples of lunatic football behaviour ever! The team had also suffered a 7–0 home defeat to Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-final.
On the same night as the club's relegation and those shameful scenes, the club's end of season dinner was being held and because of the quite shocking behaviour and abuse directed at him, DS failed to turn up and DG was left to man the fort. I was covering midlands football for national newspapers at that time and had come to know David G well. I remember him saying to me very sadly: "After that I don't think we can go on…" approximately a a year later they had left Birmingham City. The money helped of course but the depth of hurt in DG's eyes is a memory I've carried with me to a lesser or greater degree since that time. The scenes on Saturday may have been on a smaller scale but in some respect that made them worse – the threatening behaviour of David Sullivan, the sexual abuse of Karren Brady, the disgusting language in general as the co chairman attempt to make peace, is horrifying X-certificate stuff. Because it was at such a smaller scale it was so so much more personal and not easily forgotten by the recipient. What will be the fall-out from this? The first should be that every single individual involved in the 'attack' – for that's what it was – on DS should sit down and write a personal letter of apology to the man.
In the absence of that, I hope the club draws on all the resources possible to hunt these people down and land them with club bans. If a guy can be taken to court for running on the pitch and taking a drunken free kick earlier in the season, these morons should be run out of our club. Like every person who has contributed to the forums both here and on the ClaretandHugh Facebook group, I feel sickened and ashamed that these people are members of our football club. And whatever action the club takes against them – if any – we are ready to offer any help from anyone here who may recognise any of those involved.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Doubts grow over Allardyce's future
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Sam Allardyce's West Ham future is starting to look in doubt. The humiliating FA Cup defeat at the hands of West Brom and the slide in league form is being viewed dimly inside the club. And well placed insiders are now convinced that there will possibly be no contract offer for the 60 year old at the end of the campaign when his current deal comes to an end claiming everything now depends on the next 13 league games. ClaretandHugh has been aware for some time of the tension between the manager and the board as the team has scored just one win in the last nine league outings. And we can reveal that the search is underway for a new boss although Rafa Benitez – whose name has been freely mentioned – is unlikely to succeed Allardyce. We understand from agent sources that the Napoli boss wants around £6 million to even discuss a move to the east end. Ans a club insider said: "Saturday's defeat was a massive shock to the system as everybody believed we were on our way to Wembley this season. "The signs are beginning to point in the direction of a new boss next season."
However, much will depend on finding a better replacement although no FINAL decision has been made at this stage.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers target arrives in UK
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham United have admitted they are ready to offer Brazilian winger Anderson Luiz de Carvalho, better known as Nene – a short term contract at the club. David Sullivan has revealed previously that he is keen to bring in out of contract cover for Andy Carroll and Nene has now arrived in the country ready for talks with the club. The 33-year-old is a free agent after cancelling his contract with Al Gharafa and has been talking to various clubs across Europe. And a top Hammers insider revealed to ClaretandHugh: "Nene is now in the UK recovering from jetlag. "It was reported that David Sullivan is attempting to appease the fans after the events of Saturday but it has nothing to do with that at all – it is entirely to do with Andy Carroll's injury. He is certainly a live possibility. We will see how talks go."
Nene, scored 20 goals in 43 games during his time in Qatar but has spent much of his career in France and Spain, notably with Monaco and PSG where he had a good goal scoring record. A good crosser of the ball and free-kick specialist, Nene could prove a useful addition in the absence of Andy Carroll who is out for the season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rafa has all the Irons credentials
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
By Rich Sprent
Claret & Hugh
Sam Allardyce – a name that's as divisive as the possible solutions. The Irons' fan base appears to remain split down the middle over the team manager so where do we really stand in terms of progress and Sam's position? The pre-season objectives were for a cup run (failed) and a top half finish with a 50-56pts target. and with 13 games remaining and 1.38pt/game average required the league finish part is still on course. If this is achieved then once again the manager will have met his major target despite some talk at one stage of the board wanting a European finish. The lack of a cup run will certainly cast a shadow over Sullivan Towers and Sam come season end, as the powers that be gather for the end of season summit.
Whether Allardyce will have any other options for his services remains to be seen. Even so, It is unlikely – should it be offered – that he will be offered a better gig anywhere other than east London. It's been reported widely that DS has favoured replacing the manager but DG & KB do not. With no payouts to make this May a change will clearly be seen as a far more attractive option than previously. And yet, the lack of an obvious suitor waiting in the wings is of concern. The usual faces will be served up on the betting sites headed no doubt by Rafa Benitez and Slaven Bilic, The likes of Eddie Howe and Sean Dyche will be championed by those who desire a young manager to take this club forward to a new era and there are sugestions that several young coaches in Euriope are being monitored. The fear is that the 50% who desire change at seemingly any cost may return to haunt the club if the board takes the same view.
However, to remain inactive through fear is certainly not the way forward. Much the same as making a change for change's sake. The next couple of seasons are possibly two of the most important years in the club's history, a last year at the Boleyn ground followed by the 54,000 seater adventure into the Olympic Stadium. There is no doubt that this season the team has shown improvement in on-the-pitch performance. That 50% of the fan base are still unhappy with the manager shows that it probably matters little what Allardyce does, he will still be reviled by half of the fans. It is this that detracts from their never ceasing hue and cry for change – a dislike of the man and the perception of what he stands for over much reasoned debate.
The owners are pragmatic. The team are on course for a good league finish. Next season will be sold out and the indicators are, with increased investment, of more improvement on the pitch. The question that the other 50% will ask is: 'If we twist, then it has to be someone better than what we have'. There are no certainties in football but Sam Allardyce is considered a 'safe pair of hands'. Hardly a glowing endorsement for a man expected to lead this club into challenging for silverware and European competition. And yet If he is not to be offered a new deal to manage West Ham then who right now is good enough to match the ambition of the board and fan base?
If we are serious about playing with the big boys then a choice has to be made:
O Continue the journey started by Big Sam; it won't be loked by many and it won't be a smooth ride.
O Twist and try someone untested at this level which could prove deadly
O Push for an upgrade?
The obvious and pragmatic view is to change but ONLY if you improve on what you already have and Rafa Benitez is the obvious standout candidate on the bookies' lists. He has actually won silverware, has managed in the Premier League, has an excellent worldwide reputation and is out of contract at Napoli. He fits the criteria for taking West Ham forward. He'd also get a clean slate from all the fans. He'd have the opportunity to be judged on performance alone. And that cannot be sneered at.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender Winston Reid set for Tottenham audition as he returns from injury
22:30, 16 February 2015 By Adrian Kajumba
The defender is poised to head to White Hart Lane in summer after snubbing offers of a new deal
The Mirror
Winston Reid is set to make his West Ham comeback this weekend - just in time for an audition at Tottenham. Spurs are confident of landing Reid on a free transfer when his current Hammers expires at the end of the season. And Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is set to get a close look at one of his summer targets on Sunday. Centre-back Reid is expected to be fit again after missing West Ham's last three games with a hamstring injury. His return will add further spice to the White Hart Lane clash between the two fierce London rivals.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce is targeting a stronger squad and an improved performance at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday
16.02.2015
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce is expecting several familiar faces back to bolster his battle-weary squad for Sunday's big London derby with Tottenham Hotspur. The likes of James Collins, Winston Reid and Diego Poyet are set to return to training this week as Big Sam plots a repeat of last season's unforgettable 3-0 at White Hart Lane. He will also certainly be hoping that no more of the squad that were knocked out of the FA Cup at West Bromwich Albion on Saturday will be missing, following Morgan Amalfitano's red card and subsequent three-game suspension. "We've got a good recovery period now," the manager explained. "We'll have our usual post-game routine and then it's the big derby on Sunday against Spurs. We'll have some of our injured players back to bolster the squad, which will help, and hopefully we'll bounce straight back at Tottenham. "Alex Song was playing his third game in six days on Sunday so he was fatiguing and Diafra Sakho is another player we have to look after due to his back problem. We brought them off early on Saturday when we were 3-0 down so they could be ready for Sunday."
The exertions of three games in just shy of six days evidently took their toll on the Hammers, who were second best for much of the fifth-round tie at the Hawthorns. After battling draws at home to Manchester United last Sunday and away to Southampton last Wednesday, Big Sam felt some of his players were more than a little jaded. "It was a game too far for us based on our Premier League fixtures over the past week. They didn't give us the right opportunity to go to West Brom and play better to try and win the tie. It was a game too far for us and we can see that in the players. As hard as they wanted to get through, their energy levels couldn't get them there. "The players have given everything in a short space of time but it wasn't good enough on Saturday. The FA Cup is gone and we wanted it to go as far as we could but if we hadn't had the Premier League fixtures we would have given a better account of ourselves."
Due to the game being an FA Cup tie, the Claret and Blue Army's numbers were swelled to some 5,500 and they made their presence felt from the off. Sadly, it was to turn out to be a disappointing day for them and everyone else connected to the Club. "When fans are happy they cheer and applaud you and say how well you've done and when they're not so happy they show their disappointment. My professional job as a manager is to get the players out on the pitch to entertain the supporters as much as we can, which is what we've done for 80 or 90 per cent of the season. We now have to try to bounce back as quickly as possible and finish the season strongly."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Downing baffled by Baggies defeat
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing was bitterly disappointed to exit the FA Cup at West Brom on Saturday
15.02.2015
Stewart Downing was left to reflect on a bad day at the office for his West Ham United team after they were dumped out of the FA Cup by West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The Hammers suffered a 4-0 defeat to end a run which included a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Everton and a gritty display to see off Bristol City. They came unstuck at The Hawthorns on a day to forget and Downing was baffled as to where the poor display came from. "I don't know where to start to be honest," he admitted. "They were on top for most of the game. We didn't start great and once they got the goal, they sat back and it's hard to break them down. "It was one of those days when nothing went right for us. With the sending off too, it's a bad day at the office. "I couldn't really see this coming. They sit behind the ball and make it hard for you and the key is scoring first. If we had done, it's a different game as they have to come out and attack us.
"They can counter-attack off their two lads up front. It worked for them and for us we didn't get going really."
Most disappointing for Downing was throwing away the hard work to get to the last-16 stage, with a potential Wembley date starting to appear on the horizon. He continued: "We worked hard to get to this stage, so to go out like that is the worst thing about it. If you lose 1-0 or 2-0 and you've had a go then fair enough, but to lose four and it could have been five or six, nothing went right for us. "To sum it up, we missed chances, didn't pass the ball great and didn't defend the goals well so we didn't deserve anything. "Maybe having the two tough games this week had an effect, but this is the FA Cup. It's a chance to go to Wembley, so that alone should get you going. "We just didn't get out of the blocks and credit to West Brom, they got through so I wish them luck."
The midfielder says the Hammers still have plenty to play for this term, with European qualification still on their minds, He explained: "We have to concentrate on the league now, which has been the highlight of our season. We have to make sure we don't let it slip away because we've put in a lot of hard work to get to where we are at the minute. "We're still in the hunt for the European places, so Tottenham is a massive game. If we end up finishing tenth or eleventh, people won't look at the start of the season as being good. "We have to continue to do well. We're still in a healthy position, we've still got winnable games to come so Spurs is massive for us and we need to get a result." Downing concluded by offering his apologies to the 5,500 travelling fans. "We say sorry to the fans because the way we performed wasn't good enough," he said. Confidence was high after two good results, so I didn't see this coming. "It's a bad day at the office and I'm disappointed that we're out of the Cup."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loan round up
WHUFC.com
See how the six West Ham United loanees fared this weekend
16.02.2015
Tim Brown was awarded Man of the Match as Canvey Island drew with Grays Athletic on Saturday while Taylor Tombides was substituted after 77 minutes. The visitors started the better of the two sides however it was Canvey who took a first half lead through George Sykes.
Grays' pressure eventually took its toll as Manny Parry equalised from close range with just two minutes. In the dying seconds Brown made a fantastic save to deny Dumebi Dumaka and secure a valuable point.
Modibo Maiga played the full game as FC Metz lost 2-0 to Guingamp at the Stade Saint-Symphorien. The visitors took the lead in the 26 minute through striker Christophe Mandanne before Jeremy Pied doubled their advantage before half-time. The defeat sees Metz stay at the bottom of Ligue Un while Guingamp climb to eighth.
Sean Maguire was an unused substitute in Accrington Stanley's 2-1 win away at Southend United. Piero Mingoia volleyed Stanley ahead before Terry Gornell's lob doubled their lead. The Shrimpers hit back immediately from Barry Corr's header but it was too little too late.
Nathan Mavila played 88 minutes in Wealdstone's 2-1 away win at Staines Town. Michael Corcoran put the visitors ahead before Mavila's cross was tucked in by Watford loanee Luke O'Nien. After the break Elliott Buchanan pulled one back but Wealdstone held on for the three points.
Jaanai Gordon played the first 58 minutes of Chelmsford City's 2-0 defeat by Maidenhead United. The striker was replaced by Sam Gregory in the second half.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mediawatch - 16 February
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
16.02.2015
In The Sun (£), Stewart Downing says the Hammers must redeem themselves at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Describing the White Hart Lane clash as 'massive', the midfielder explains that it show whether the Hammers can bouce back swiftly.
Former Chelsea and Real Madrid man Lassana Diarra tells the Mirror he is hopeful that the Hammers will revive their interest in him come the Summer transfer window.
Talking to the Mail Online, the manager vows to end the campaign in entertaining fashion following Saturday's disappointing FA Cup exit.
In London 24, West Ham correspondent Dave Evans argues in this opinion piece that the team and not the management should have been the focus of the supporters' disappointment on Saturday.
Finally, Stevenage paper The Comet report that Academy graduate and former Hammer Jack Collison returned home to Shefford to coach young players recently.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Replica shirts update
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are pleased to update supporters on the Club's 2014/15 replica shirts
16.02.2015
Following the announcement of West Ham United's record sponsorship deal with Betway, the Club are pleased to provide supporters with further news on how they can obtain updated replica shirts. Supporters should note that all existing stock is to be rebranded, with Betway now to feature on all adult shirts and West Ham United Foundation on the junior equivalents to mirror the branding worn by the senior and Academy teams respectively. These will be in stock instore and online within the next few weeks. Additionally, both junior and adult supporters who have already purchased a 2014/15 replica shirt are welcome to get their shirt updated, free of charge, at any of the Club's four official stores. This will be possible from Tuesday 24 February, in the lead up to the Crystal Palace game. Please note that due to the volume of supporters present, updates cannot be made on a matchday at the Stadium Store from two hours prior to kick-off. Together, the Club and Betway have explored all avenues for the re-branding of the shirts through various suppliers as a new shirt could not be produced. The solution found is the best available and was chosen based on the needs of the players. Sourced from Norway, the shirt branding is composed from a durable and lightweight, high-performance material, providing full range of movement and comfort while on the pitch. While this solution is market leading, it is of course only temporary. The 2015/16 shirt has been designed in collaboration with Betway with branding engrained in the shirt's look to ensure it befits the Hammers' final season at the Boleyn Ground.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Three match ban for Amalfitano
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 16th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Morgan Amalfitano has been handed a three-match ban for his dismissal against West Brom on Saturday. The French winger was sent off having been on the field for just ten minutes against his old club, in West Ham's FA Cup mauling at the Hawthorns. Booked initially for a late challenge on Chris Brunt, Amalfitano was issued a straight red moments later for pushing Brunt in the face. Amalfitano, who joined West Ham in a cut-price deal last summer has made 22 appearances for West Ham this season, scoring twice. Prior to his red card on Saturday he was previously booked on two occaasions, against Man City and Newcastle (both at home).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Free agent in talks
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 16th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
David Sullivan has revealed that West Ham are in talks with a free agent. Sullivan, speaking to a KUMB source at West Brom on Saturday afternoon confirmed that a striker flew into London yesterday ahead of talks with view to a short-term contract. And according to the Mail this morning, that striker is 33-year-old former PSG star Nene, who had been out of contract since leaving Quataro outfit Al-Gharafa.
The 6' Brazilian began his career in South America back in 1999. He moved to Europe in 2003 to join Mallorca, with whom he stayed for just one season. Alaves snapped up the free kick specialist in the summer of 2004 - a club he went on to score 21 times for in 78 games. Thereafter he enjoyed spells with Celta (3 goal in 38 appearances), Monaco (19 in 63) and Espanyol (4 in 35). In 2010, Nene earned a dream move to Paris St Germain in a €5.5.million switch. His second year at the club saw his finish level with current Arsenal star Olivier Giroud as Ligue 1's top goalscorer. However after falling out with head coach Carlo Ancelotti he left France to join Al-Gharafa of Qatar for €4.5.million.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Disturbing new Sullivan video emerges (NSFW)
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 16th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
A new video showing West Ham fans encircling co-owner David Sullivan at the Hawthorns on Saturday has emerged. Sullivan, who left the game prior to the full time whistle was accosted by a number of middle-aged fans in the car park at the Hawthorns. And this new video, longer than the first video posted on KUMB at the weekend showed the club's co-owner defending himself from a barrage of abuse from angry fans.
"Why are you leaving early? Why are you f**king off early?" blasted one middle-aged man, as he stood confrontationally in front of the diminutive 66-year-old - as other fans shouted comments such as "get Fat Sam and Nolan out".
Then, as Sullivan left the scene to return to his car one fan repeatedly shouted the c-word. See the video (posted by user Cameron Spicer) for yourself below - please be prepared to hear liberal use of foul language.
http://www.kumb.com/story.php?id=128285
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lassana Diarra hoping West Ham rekindle transfer interest in the summer
Last Updated: 16/02/15 3:24pm
SSN
West Ham will consider a move for midfielder Lassana Diarra in the summer, but only if he becomes a free agent, Sky sources understand.
Diarra trained with the Hammers earlier this month but a contract dispute with his club Lokomotiv Moscow ended any hopes of them signing him. The former France international claims he was fired by the club but Lokomotiv Moscow will not let him register for someone else until they reach a resolution. West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has confirmed his desire to bring Diarra to Upton Park but will only do so if he is freed by his current employers. Diarra recently said of the dispute: "As long as the conflict is not sorted, FIFA forbid me to play so it's so frustrating. "What happened was that I got fired from a club and now I cannot play football. It's a crazy thing because I'm free. "Hopefully it can all be resolved and the deal with West Ham can be completed."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THE NIGHT WE TOOK THE P*** OUT OF TOTTENHAM
By Iain Dale 16 Feb 2015 at 17:20
West Ham Til I Die
Guest Post by Rome Hammer
On a hot Wednesday evening, September 2, 1981, I went to see Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United at White Hart Lane, a passionate affair and a real corker of a match. It was the second game of the 1981/2 Season. West Ham's opener, at home to Brighton the Saturday before, had been a dour game with neither side impressing in the 1-1 draw. West Ham's unsteady inauguration to the top flight, after the record-breaking promotion season—a season that John Lyall would later write as being his personal best—provoked the press to speculate on the Hammers' chances of survival. The mid-week derby, against the reigning FA Cup winners' and their international pack of flamboyant stars, such as Ricky Villa, Ray Clemence, Glen Hoddle and Steve Perryman, was to have provided a more trying task for the new boys from Upton Park.
I reached White Hart Lane at 7.30, fifteen minutes before kick-off, and managed to squeeze myself in amongst the heaving legions of West Ham fans already crammed into the stadium. I was lucky to secure a minuscule spot on a ledge right at the back of the terraces, from where I perched to view the game. The Park Lane stand that night was completely packed to the rafters with West Ham fans. The ground was crammed to breaking point; three sides swayed to the pre-match chants, while to our left stood Tottenham's new West Stand, nearly completed, gleaning, pristine and empty; but this deserted side didn't detract from the atmosphere. The morning after's newspapers gave that night's attendance as 41,200—200 more than the maximum official capacity allowed while Tottenham were doing up the ground.
West Ham's squad that season was more or less made up of the same sides that had won the FA Cup in 1980, reached the League Cup final and the quarter finals of the Cup Winners' Cup in 1981, and that which had set the record breaking total of 66 points in winning the old Second Division Championship, the last season that two points were awarded for a win. By today's standards West Ham would have won promotion with 94 points, which, I believe, would still be a post-war points record. West Ham's line up that night was: Phil Parkes; Ray Stewart, Frank Lampard, Billy Bonds, Alvin Martin; Alan Devonshire, Geoff Pike, Paul Allen, Jimmy Neighbour; David Cross and Paul Goddard with Bobby Barnes as substitute. Missing was the celestial talent of Trevor Brooking who was still not match fit after injury.
Before the match, two middleweight boxers saluted the crowd from the pitch. One was Mark Kaylor, an ardent West Ham supporter who fought in his team's colours, and the other was Jimmy Ellis, who was billed on the night as being a Tottenham fan. The terraces greeted them with a deafening roar and the chanting grew ever louder. These two were to fight at Wembley Arena on September 15 with Kaylor winning.
The kick-off pushed the highly partisan crowd to fever pitch and an even greater din and commotion ensued; the atmosphere that night was so electric that London's energy demand could have been supplied direct from the ground.
When David Cross scored at the Paxton End of the ground in the first half, the West Ham end erupted in unconstrained jubilation; the crowd swayed as one and I was nearly swept down the terraces in the reeling revelry. It was a happy claret and blue contingent that belted out "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles" throughout the half-time ceremonies rendering the on-the-pitch presentations inaudible; but none of West Ham's choirboys could have imagined the second half's fanfare. It was a shame that Eammon Andrews was not there to present 'This is Your Life" to the man-of-match: the indomitable David Cross, or "Psycho" as he was fondly known. For it was his goals that trounced Spurs that night, four in all, the third, a spectacular right-footed volley from a Geoff Pike cross. Cross later claimed that that goal, and the his mercurial performance that night was one of the best of his career, and in appreciation of his efforts shirts soon appeared in the East End emblazoned with: Tottenham 0 Psycho 4.
And what joy there was on the terraces. The roof shook, the stanchions rattled, and the terraces rippled to the dancing of "Knees Up Mother Brown." Not a squeak was heard from the despondent Tottenham followers as they slunk off early. The Shelf had been shelved. For the last fifteen minutes the West Ham fans sang out "We took the piss again, Tottenham, Tottenham!" When the game finished rapturous applause of unbounded joy exploded from the West Ham supporters. The mile and a half walk back to Seven Sisters tube station was to see some skirmishing as the Tottenham devotees took offence at not only the result, but also to the constant chanting of "We took the piss again." That night at Seven Sisters Station the Tube's tunnels echoed all over London with the ecstatic rejoicing of the boys (and girls) in claret and blue. West Ham were back and no-one would speculate further on the chances of the Irons going back down that season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SHOCKING VIDEO OF DAVID SULLIVAN THREATENED BY FANS
By Sean Whetstone 16 Feb 2015 at 12:14
West Ham till I Die
The full shocking video of the abuse suffered by West Ham chairman David Sullivan at the hands of a minority of West Ham bullies has emerged on youtube. Judging the age of these so called fans they should know better and their vile behaviour does not represent the club or the majority of our fan base.
Sullivan looks visibly shocked at one stage and raises his hands in defence when he thinks he might get hit by one angry fan.
Full Transcript
Fan voice 1: It's not your fault, it's not your fault.
Fan voice 2: Don't talk to me, I'm a season-ticket holder.
Sullivan: Who else is going to take over?
Fan voice 2: I'm a season-ticket holder, don't talk to me like that.
Why are you leaving early? Why are you f***ing leaving early?
Fan voice 3: Why are you f***ing off early?
Sullivan: Why are you?
Fan voice 2: Because I've got to travel back on the f***ing train, not a f***ing Rolls Royce or a f***ing plane. We're fans.
Sullivan: Look, I'm a fan. I've never left early all season. That was the worst performance all season.
Fan voice 2: Can you give us something back though?
Fan voice 4: Does Karren Brady take it up the muffled.
Fan voice 2: Can we just forget it and instead of palming it all of can we have some answers?
Sullivan: I'll shake your hand, shake your hand, shake your hand.
Fan voice 5: I've been a West Ham supporter for 40 f***ing years. Why aren't you f***ing doing something?
Fan voice 2: Can we have some answers?
Fan voice 4: Does Karren Brady take it up the a***?
Fan voice 2: Can we have some answers please?
Sullivan: That's not big and it's not clever.
Fan voice 6: That's not funny.
Fan voice 2: Can we have some answers? Proper answers, not on Twitter, not on Twitter.
Fan voice 7: Listen mate, we was up at four o'clock this morning…
Fan voice 8: Get Big Sam out!
Fan voice 9: Sam out!
Fan voice 7: We got caught in a crash on the motorway, someone died, someone died, and we got here 25 minutes gone, and we're leaving 25 minutes to go. We've had it with him.
Sullivan: I've never left early.
Fan voice 7: We've had it with him.
Sullivan: All season it was the worst performance.
Fan voice 10: Fair play to you, fair play to you.
Fan voice 11: West Brom, they're going down mate, get rid of that fat c***!
Fan voice 12: Fair play David!
Fan voice 13: Fair play!
Fan voice 14: You're a c***!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stewart Downing: Tottenham are "no better" than West Ham in race for European qualification
22:30, 15 February 2015 By Mike Walters
The pair are go head-to-head at White Hart Lane on Sunday and Downing believes the Hammers can use their FA Cup setback as motivation
The Mirror
Stewart Downing believes West Ham's FA Cup flops can still finish above Tottenham and qualify for Europe. But after the feeble surrender at the Hawthorns, the England winger warned they must not allow six months of promise to evaporate into mid-table anonymity. Travelling fans booed off their team, but Sunday's derby at White Hart Lane offers West Ham a quick route to redemption. And Downing admitted: "If I'd paid a lot of money to come and watch that, I'd have felt the same way. "But if we get a good result against Tottenham, we can put it to bed and have a good finish to the season. "If you told the fans we get knocked out of the cup but finish in Europe, they will take that. "We owe Tottenham one, after they beat us in the last minute on the opening day of the season, and I don't accept they're going to finish above us. "They spent a lot of money and man-for-man I don't think they're any better than us. "We don't want to waste all the good work, and all the top teams we've beaten, over the first six months of the season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DS suffered abuse as he rushed to Mum's side
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
EXCLUSIVE
By Hugh Southon
David Sullivan left West Bromwich Albion early on Saturday evening because his 97 year old mother Thelma was lying critically ill in a hospital bed. West Ham United consumes the club's co chairman and and chief shareholder but he was desperate on this occasion to get away to be by Mum's bedside. David himself has been through relatively recent quadruple heart by-pass surgery and has been told by his doctors to avoid all stress. He had parked up in an area which didn't open until an hour after the game and thus faced the walk to his car which was interrupted by a baying mob of "supporters" invading his space as he tried to cope with a desperate Irons performance and a determination to get to his mother's side as soon as possible. His anguish was multiplied by the fact that most doctors believe that Thelma's life span can now be measured in days. These are the things supporters don't see apparently believing that because they have been fans for 40 years they have the right to make a man's life a living hell.
David Sullivan – despite the issues surrounding his mother and heading a familiy with the domestic problems we all encounter – is a 24/7 Irons workaholic. He admits privately that the club is not a business but his "passion and hobby" and every inquiry I have ever made of him has been met with the sort of courtesy and respect he attempted to show the people who cornered him
Today he remains shocked by the real anger felt by some supporters towards himself and long term business partner David Gold. And although he understands it's a minority they were VERY vociferous ! However, the younger supporters, not heard on the filming on the fan sites, strongly disagreed with what was going on. Our thoughts are with the Sullivan family and Thelma this evening!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Macari apologises for spell in charge
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Former Hammers manager Lou Macari questioned Sam Allardyce's excuse for the FA Cup exit yesterday via twitter "Big Sam says fixture list and early kick off lost them the game v WBA, Whats that all about?"
Claret and Hugh's own Nigel Kahn replied to Macari stating "It's called deflecting criticism, To be honest Sam is raising you in the list of West Ham managers. You are not in bottom 3 now"
Lou Macari replied to Nigel saying "Apologize for not doing better, did sign Ludo Miklosko, Ian Bishop and Trevor Morley for £800,000 pounds and sold Mark Ward £750,000″
Lou Macari was West Ham manager between 1989 and 1990 managing just 38 games with 14 wins, 12 draws and 12 losses. His win rate was 36.85%.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Warning: Fan abuse helped Davids quit Birmingham
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Were it not for the fact that David Sullivan and David Gold love West Ham for their lives I could see them walking away from Upton Park after the events of Saturday evening. AND NO I AM NOT BEING MELODRAMATIC !
History tells us many things and the type of mob rule that saw David Sullivan cornered and abused outside the Hawthorns was precisely the type of behaviour that helped lead to the duo's departure from Birmingham City. That was a year on from relegation in 2005-06 when the Birmingham fans went completely crazy, tearing down the goal posts, abusing the players and owners in one of the worst examples of lunatic football behaviour ever! The team had also suffered a 7–0 home defeat to Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-final.
On the same night as the club's relegation and those shameful scenes, the club's end of season dinner was being held and because of the quite shocking behaviour and abuse directed at him, DS failed to turn up and DG was left to man the fort. I was covering midlands football for national newspapers at that time and had come to know David G well. I remember him saying to me very sadly: "After that I don't think we can go on…" approximately a a year later they had left Birmingham City. The money helped of course but the depth of hurt in DG's eyes is a memory I've carried with me to a lesser or greater degree since that time. The scenes on Saturday may have been on a smaller scale but in some respect that made them worse – the threatening behaviour of David Sullivan, the sexual abuse of Karren Brady, the disgusting language in general as the co chairman attempt to make peace, is horrifying X-certificate stuff. Because it was at such a smaller scale it was so so much more personal and not easily forgotten by the recipient. What will be the fall-out from this? The first should be that every single individual involved in the 'attack' – for that's what it was – on DS should sit down and write a personal letter of apology to the man.
In the absence of that, I hope the club draws on all the resources possible to hunt these people down and land them with club bans. If a guy can be taken to court for running on the pitch and taking a drunken free kick earlier in the season, these morons should be run out of our club. Like every person who has contributed to the forums both here and on the ClaretandHugh Facebook group, I feel sickened and ashamed that these people are members of our football club. And whatever action the club takes against them – if any – we are ready to offer any help from anyone here who may recognise any of those involved.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Doubts grow over Allardyce's future
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Sam Allardyce's West Ham future is starting to look in doubt. The humiliating FA Cup defeat at the hands of West Brom and the slide in league form is being viewed dimly inside the club. And well placed insiders are now convinced that there will possibly be no contract offer for the 60 year old at the end of the campaign when his current deal comes to an end claiming everything now depends on the next 13 league games. ClaretandHugh has been aware for some time of the tension between the manager and the board as the team has scored just one win in the last nine league outings. And we can reveal that the search is underway for a new boss although Rafa Benitez – whose name has been freely mentioned – is unlikely to succeed Allardyce. We understand from agent sources that the Napoli boss wants around £6 million to even discuss a move to the east end. Ans a club insider said: "Saturday's defeat was a massive shock to the system as everybody believed we were on our way to Wembley this season. "The signs are beginning to point in the direction of a new boss next season."
However, much will depend on finding a better replacement although no FINAL decision has been made at this stage.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers target arrives in UK
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham United have admitted they are ready to offer Brazilian winger Anderson Luiz de Carvalho, better known as Nene – a short term contract at the club. David Sullivan has revealed previously that he is keen to bring in out of contract cover for Andy Carroll and Nene has now arrived in the country ready for talks with the club. The 33-year-old is a free agent after cancelling his contract with Al Gharafa and has been talking to various clubs across Europe. And a top Hammers insider revealed to ClaretandHugh: "Nene is now in the UK recovering from jetlag. "It was reported that David Sullivan is attempting to appease the fans after the events of Saturday but it has nothing to do with that at all – it is entirely to do with Andy Carroll's injury. He is certainly a live possibility. We will see how talks go."
Nene, scored 20 goals in 43 games during his time in Qatar but has spent much of his career in France and Spain, notably with Monaco and PSG where he had a good goal scoring record. A good crosser of the ball and free-kick specialist, Nene could prove a useful addition in the absence of Andy Carroll who is out for the season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rafa has all the Irons credentials
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 16, 2015 in Whispers
By Rich Sprent
Claret & Hugh
Sam Allardyce – a name that's as divisive as the possible solutions. The Irons' fan base appears to remain split down the middle over the team manager so where do we really stand in terms of progress and Sam's position? The pre-season objectives were for a cup run (failed) and a top half finish with a 50-56pts target. and with 13 games remaining and 1.38pt/game average required the league finish part is still on course. If this is achieved then once again the manager will have met his major target despite some talk at one stage of the board wanting a European finish. The lack of a cup run will certainly cast a shadow over Sullivan Towers and Sam come season end, as the powers that be gather for the end of season summit.
Whether Allardyce will have any other options for his services remains to be seen. Even so, It is unlikely – should it be offered – that he will be offered a better gig anywhere other than east London. It's been reported widely that DS has favoured replacing the manager but DG & KB do not. With no payouts to make this May a change will clearly be seen as a far more attractive option than previously. And yet, the lack of an obvious suitor waiting in the wings is of concern. The usual faces will be served up on the betting sites headed no doubt by Rafa Benitez and Slaven Bilic, The likes of Eddie Howe and Sean Dyche will be championed by those who desire a young manager to take this club forward to a new era and there are sugestions that several young coaches in Euriope are being monitored. The fear is that the 50% who desire change at seemingly any cost may return to haunt the club if the board takes the same view.
However, to remain inactive through fear is certainly not the way forward. Much the same as making a change for change's sake. The next couple of seasons are possibly two of the most important years in the club's history, a last year at the Boleyn ground followed by the 54,000 seater adventure into the Olympic Stadium. There is no doubt that this season the team has shown improvement in on-the-pitch performance. That 50% of the fan base are still unhappy with the manager shows that it probably matters little what Allardyce does, he will still be reviled by half of the fans. It is this that detracts from their never ceasing hue and cry for change – a dislike of the man and the perception of what he stands for over much reasoned debate.
The owners are pragmatic. The team are on course for a good league finish. Next season will be sold out and the indicators are, with increased investment, of more improvement on the pitch. The question that the other 50% will ask is: 'If we twist, then it has to be someone better than what we have'. There are no certainties in football but Sam Allardyce is considered a 'safe pair of hands'. Hardly a glowing endorsement for a man expected to lead this club into challenging for silverware and European competition. And yet If he is not to be offered a new deal to manage West Ham then who right now is good enough to match the ambition of the board and fan base?
If we are serious about playing with the big boys then a choice has to be made:
O Continue the journey started by Big Sam; it won't be loked by many and it won't be a smooth ride.
O Twist and try someone untested at this level which could prove deadly
O Push for an upgrade?
The obvious and pragmatic view is to change but ONLY if you improve on what you already have and Rafa Benitez is the obvious standout candidate on the bookies' lists. He has actually won silverware, has managed in the Premier League, has an excellent worldwide reputation and is out of contract at Napoli. He fits the criteria for taking West Ham forward. He'd also get a clean slate from all the fans. He'd have the opportunity to be judged on performance alone. And that cannot be sneered at.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender Winston Reid set for Tottenham audition as he returns from injury
22:30, 16 February 2015 By Adrian Kajumba
The defender is poised to head to White Hart Lane in summer after snubbing offers of a new deal
The Mirror
Winston Reid is set to make his West Ham comeback this weekend - just in time for an audition at Tottenham. Spurs are confident of landing Reid on a free transfer when his current Hammers expires at the end of the season. And Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino is set to get a close look at one of his summer targets on Sunday. Centre-back Reid is expected to be fit again after missing West Ham's last three games with a hamstring injury. His return will add further spice to the White Hart Lane clash between the two fierce London rivals.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
Monday, February 16
Daily WHUFC News - 16th February 2015
U18s earn Aston Villa draw
WHUFC.com
Djair Parfitt-Williams' seventh goal of the season earned the U18s a 1-1 draw at Aston Villa
15.02.2015
SendSend PrintPrint RssRSS
West Ham United battled to a tough 1-1 Barclays U18 Premier League draw at Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon. The Hammers deservedly went ahead when Bermuda-born attacker Djair Parfitt-Williams finished low into the corner from Grady Diangana's cut-back, but the visitors then wasted several chances to double their advantage. It was the forward's seventh goal of a productive season. Villa pulled themselves level on 69 minutes when Rushian Hepburn-Murphy finished well into the corner, before England international goalkeeper Sam Howes denied the hosts a last-minute winner to secure a point for the Hammers. U18s coach Mark Phillips made six changes to the Academy side that had been defeated 3-2 at home by Fulham just a week earlier. Jake Eggleton and Declan Rice were replaced at the back by Tunji Akinola and Manny Onariase, while Alex Pike also returned to the squad. Kieran Bailey dropped to the bench, allowing Jerry Amoo a starting role at Bodymoor Heath, while Jahmal Hector-Ingram and Decarrey Sheriff both missed out on the trip to the Midlands and were replaced by recent Development Squad call-ups Jordan Brown and Djair Parfitt-Williams
Throughout the opening 20 minutes, both sides were very even in terms of possession and efforts on goal. Diangana fired high over the bar on nine minutes before Brown forced a low save out of the home goalkeeper. Down the other end of the pitch, Villa were looking threatening with their impressive combination of pace and skill, but the hosts also failed to turn their possession into meaningful efforts on goal.
After the break, the Hammers stepped up a level and began to push the hosts back deeper into their own half. They got their reward on 52 minutes when Diangana picked the ball up inside the Villa penalty area and found Parfitt-Williams unmarked near the edge of the box. He took the shot first time and buried it low into the far corner of the net. The Hammers could have made it two when a dangerous chip in the Villa box caused a goalmouth scramble that ended with left-back Oscar Borg flicking a shot towards goal that was cleared off the line.
Following that, Carter also had a chance to double the Hammers' slender advantage, but unlike Parfitt-Williams earlier in the half, the central midfielder failed to keep his low shot on target.
Aston Villa took advantage and grabbed themselves and equaliser just a minute later though, when the hosts broke quickly with pace and found Hepburn-Murphy, who duly finished the impressive move with a fine finish. In the closing stages, the hosts thought they had scored the goal to win them the game. However, Howes appeared from nowhere to superbly tip the ball just over the bar. The Hammers will return to action when they host Norwich City at Little Heath on Saturday 21 February 2015. Kick-off is at 12pm, with parking and admission both completely FREE of charge!
U18s: Howes, Knoyle, Onariase, Akinola, Borg, Pike, Carter, Diangana (Bailey), Amoo, Brown, Parfitt-Williams
Subs not used: Bogard, Elsom, Eggleton, Hamilton
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SUNDAY ROUND-UP
By Iain Dale 15 Feb 2015 at 10:30
West Ham Till I Die
Well the Sunday papers and West Ham websites make for some interesting reading this morning. Here's a flavour to get your teeth stuck into.
Various papers say Romalu Lukaku wants to leave Everton for either West Ham or Tottenham. West Ham would pay for him by selling Enner Valencia to Tottenham.
The Express says Sam Allardyce's future at West Ham is under a cloud following West Ham fan reaction to the FA CUp defeat
Aaron Creswell is interesting Manchester City
Richard Keys reckons West Ham won't win many more games this season. Richard who?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'The Three' were NOT Hammers
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret &Hugh
Early reports that three Hammers supporters were killed in a road traffic accident are incorrect. Every media outlet, including ClaretandHugh, had been led to believe this was the case but Bedfordshire Police have issued a statement which shows that not to be the case. It read: "BEDFORDSHIRE Police investigating yesterday's (Sat 14 Feb) fatal collision on the M1 say the coach driver who was arrested at the time has been released. The man, who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, was released on unconditional bail to return to police headquarters custody suite in Kempston in May. It is now known that all three passengers in the Audi A3 were men in their twenties who were returning to their Buckinghamshire homes following a night out in London. Two died at the scene and the third is in a critical but stable condition at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford following surgery. The driver of the car died and was a man in his late 50s from London. All next of kin have now been located and are being supported by specially trained family liaision officers from Bedfordshire Police. None of the victims will be named until formal identification has taken place and inquests are opened and adjourned, which will be early next week. No-one in the coach, which was travelling from Kent with a group of 60 women and three men in their late teens and early 20s, was hurt. They were given alternative transport home."
Police continue to appeal for witnesses to the collision, which happened on the northbound hard shoulder of the M1 between junction 12 and 13 at 6.46am. The road was closed for several hours." Our condolences to all those involved regardless and apologies for the misinformation.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How many more points can Irons collect?
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret &Hugh
Thirteen games to go and below you will see them listed! Some may say we have an easy run-in but nothing at all is straightforward at this level and at least five of the clubs we face are likely to be battling for their lives against relegation. At the top end four of those we face are battling for European places, making the situation as tough as it has been at any stage this season. The question we want answered this evening is just how many more points we can expect to add to the current total of 38 and we want to hear from YOU.
Our prediction is the Irons will end the season with 56 – over to you!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons Cluedo e-mail truly the pits!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret &Hugh
Sometimes words are not enough! And the decision to send this automated e-mail to fans this morning given the shocking defeat against West Brom is one of those occasions. It appears to be the sickest joke imaginable and someone needs the dressing downs of dressing downs.
Look at the words, look at the beaming face and ask yourself: "Did the person in the West Ham marketing department responsible for this debacle actually have a clue what they were doing or saying? ClaretandHugh's phones haven't stopped since this shocking piece of promotional activity took place as it was a proper smack on the face for all those who travelled to the midlands yesterday. It beggars belief that anybody could dream up such a heading and associate it with the last piece of merchandise in the world that should have been promoted. For nobody this weekend inside the club appears to have a clue.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
What's gone wrong with Irons – an analysis
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
By Rich Sprent
Claret & Hugh
Six more wins or 1.38 points per game. That's the season's remaining target! West Ham sit in 8th spot, the Cup 'run' stopped before it got to mid-stride, but the pre-season target of 56pts still well within reach. The team is more than capable in achieving this total. Their early season form shows that they are able to play good attacking football and win points. However, the temporary solution to the injuries at central defence will need to be addressed. It is clear that Cheik Kouyate is a capable deputy at the back. However, it is also crystal that has a huge effect in the middle of the park. The club's failure to secure another midfielder in the transfer window means that the pedestrian pairing of Noble and Nolan is being seen far too often. It would be easy to direct all this at the club captain as many have done. He has shown that he can put in a shift and a recent article showed that the team win as many games with him as without him. Together however, their lack of ability, pace, acceleration and movement is a problem doubled. It causes less options for the player in possession; more pitch for him to have to ball carry ; gifts the opposition more time to reset and get bodies behind the ball; gives less space for the forwards to operate in and makes life more difficult. In brief, it stifles us.
And all of that explains Song is holding onto the ball; tries difficult passe with mire not coming off . It's why Downing sinks deeper to find the ball; why he is less effective; and he drifts out wide to find space.
It's why the fullbacks aren't raiding. Instead they are left covering after the midfield have been turned up the pitch; or are closed down with little support for the angle pass from the midfield. It is why Valencia and Sakho look like strangers to each other and their teammates. They revel in space and quick transition of play, hitting the opposition with pace and movement. How often have we seen the almost inevitable traffic jam of defenders around them by the time the ball is passed around the back to give time for either Nolan or Noble to find space to contribute? That or the inevitable easy long ball to try and turn the opposition back four. Meat and drink to a back six waiting to soak it up. One of either Noble or Nolan needs to be replaced in that centre pairing. Despite the populist view, to play the glittering way of early in the season, it really doesn't matter which of them. Kouyate is the obvious choice as Poyet is clearly not being considered ready yet. And if that means blooding Henry a little early or even trying Joey O'Brien back there. If not then 1.38pts per game looks like an arthritic lurch to the finish line with two players in the engine room who turn with the speed of the 15 bus at the White Horse, East Ham.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Let's have an end to the excuse finding for failure
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret &Hugh
I am fully aware I have a reputation as being an anti Sam man – I wish it wasn't the case but I have always believed in personal responsibility and owning up rather than finding a handy excuse in the event of dismal failure.
After yesterday's game I waited with huge anticipation that he apologise for our shocking non performance and getting his team selection wrong – notably in the case of Kevin Nolan.
Instead we were told the team's energy levels were down because of matches against Manchester United last weekend and Saints in midweek.
His explanation quite apart from making the lads sound like a bunch of wimps didn't bear the closest examination because the same had been true of West Brom who had beaten Swansea and drawn with Burnley.
Thankfully Adrian came out a little later declaring that the players should always be 100 per cent for every game – nice to hear a bit of honesty and the aforementioned personal responsibility.
It doesn't matter whether it's Sam Allardyce or our kids, honesty and a refusal to excuse poor behaviour or performance is unacceptable.
Please, can we have an end to this excuse finding…it's poor form!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham striker Carlton Cole praises Tottenham's Harry Kane on Twitter
HITC
Mathew Nash
The pair may be club level rivals but Cole rates Kane very highly. It is no secret now that Harry Kane is having an absolutely sublime season at Tottenham Hotspur. The talented striker has already netted 23 goals for the club this season and is improving by the game.
Such performances are helping Tottenham stay in the race for the Champions League places while he is also on the cusp of an England call-up, as Roy Hodgson confirmed to TheFA.com this week. His performances are also being noticed by a striker who has played for England and is currently employed by one of Tottenham's fiercest rivals, West Ham United. Carlton Cole may not be the most appreciated striker around but he has managed to play seven times for his country since making his debut in 2013. But Cole took a moment on Twitter yesterday to put London rivalry between Spurs and West Ham to one side and just pay tribute to the Tottenham striker, banging in the goals this season.
Here is the Tweet in question:
Carlton Cole ✔ @CarltonCole1
Follow
You got to rate talent when it's due and Harry Kane is doing a lot right now ✊
The reality is Cole's England days are over but in Kane the country surely realises, as Cole himself likely does, they have a far superior up-and-comer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
WHUFC.com
Djair Parfitt-Williams' seventh goal of the season earned the U18s a 1-1 draw at Aston Villa
15.02.2015
SendSend PrintPrint RssRSS
West Ham United battled to a tough 1-1 Barclays U18 Premier League draw at Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon. The Hammers deservedly went ahead when Bermuda-born attacker Djair Parfitt-Williams finished low into the corner from Grady Diangana's cut-back, but the visitors then wasted several chances to double their advantage. It was the forward's seventh goal of a productive season. Villa pulled themselves level on 69 minutes when Rushian Hepburn-Murphy finished well into the corner, before England international goalkeeper Sam Howes denied the hosts a last-minute winner to secure a point for the Hammers. U18s coach Mark Phillips made six changes to the Academy side that had been defeated 3-2 at home by Fulham just a week earlier. Jake Eggleton and Declan Rice were replaced at the back by Tunji Akinola and Manny Onariase, while Alex Pike also returned to the squad. Kieran Bailey dropped to the bench, allowing Jerry Amoo a starting role at Bodymoor Heath, while Jahmal Hector-Ingram and Decarrey Sheriff both missed out on the trip to the Midlands and were replaced by recent Development Squad call-ups Jordan Brown and Djair Parfitt-Williams
Throughout the opening 20 minutes, both sides were very even in terms of possession and efforts on goal. Diangana fired high over the bar on nine minutes before Brown forced a low save out of the home goalkeeper. Down the other end of the pitch, Villa were looking threatening with their impressive combination of pace and skill, but the hosts also failed to turn their possession into meaningful efforts on goal.
After the break, the Hammers stepped up a level and began to push the hosts back deeper into their own half. They got their reward on 52 minutes when Diangana picked the ball up inside the Villa penalty area and found Parfitt-Williams unmarked near the edge of the box. He took the shot first time and buried it low into the far corner of the net. The Hammers could have made it two when a dangerous chip in the Villa box caused a goalmouth scramble that ended with left-back Oscar Borg flicking a shot towards goal that was cleared off the line.
Following that, Carter also had a chance to double the Hammers' slender advantage, but unlike Parfitt-Williams earlier in the half, the central midfielder failed to keep his low shot on target.
Aston Villa took advantage and grabbed themselves and equaliser just a minute later though, when the hosts broke quickly with pace and found Hepburn-Murphy, who duly finished the impressive move with a fine finish. In the closing stages, the hosts thought they had scored the goal to win them the game. However, Howes appeared from nowhere to superbly tip the ball just over the bar. The Hammers will return to action when they host Norwich City at Little Heath on Saturday 21 February 2015. Kick-off is at 12pm, with parking and admission both completely FREE of charge!
U18s: Howes, Knoyle, Onariase, Akinola, Borg, Pike, Carter, Diangana (Bailey), Amoo, Brown, Parfitt-Williams
Subs not used: Bogard, Elsom, Eggleton, Hamilton
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SUNDAY ROUND-UP
By Iain Dale 15 Feb 2015 at 10:30
West Ham Till I Die
Well the Sunday papers and West Ham websites make for some interesting reading this morning. Here's a flavour to get your teeth stuck into.
Various papers say Romalu Lukaku wants to leave Everton for either West Ham or Tottenham. West Ham would pay for him by selling Enner Valencia to Tottenham.
The Express says Sam Allardyce's future at West Ham is under a cloud following West Ham fan reaction to the FA CUp defeat
Aaron Creswell is interesting Manchester City
Richard Keys reckons West Ham won't win many more games this season. Richard who?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'The Three' were NOT Hammers
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret &Hugh
Early reports that three Hammers supporters were killed in a road traffic accident are incorrect. Every media outlet, including ClaretandHugh, had been led to believe this was the case but Bedfordshire Police have issued a statement which shows that not to be the case. It read: "BEDFORDSHIRE Police investigating yesterday's (Sat 14 Feb) fatal collision on the M1 say the coach driver who was arrested at the time has been released. The man, who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, was released on unconditional bail to return to police headquarters custody suite in Kempston in May. It is now known that all three passengers in the Audi A3 were men in their twenties who were returning to their Buckinghamshire homes following a night out in London. Two died at the scene and the third is in a critical but stable condition at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford following surgery. The driver of the car died and was a man in his late 50s from London. All next of kin have now been located and are being supported by specially trained family liaision officers from Bedfordshire Police. None of the victims will be named until formal identification has taken place and inquests are opened and adjourned, which will be early next week. No-one in the coach, which was travelling from Kent with a group of 60 women and three men in their late teens and early 20s, was hurt. They were given alternative transport home."
Police continue to appeal for witnesses to the collision, which happened on the northbound hard shoulder of the M1 between junction 12 and 13 at 6.46am. The road was closed for several hours." Our condolences to all those involved regardless and apologies for the misinformation.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How many more points can Irons collect?
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret &Hugh
Thirteen games to go and below you will see them listed! Some may say we have an easy run-in but nothing at all is straightforward at this level and at least five of the clubs we face are likely to be battling for their lives against relegation. At the top end four of those we face are battling for European places, making the situation as tough as it has been at any stage this season. The question we want answered this evening is just how many more points we can expect to add to the current total of 38 and we want to hear from YOU.
Our prediction is the Irons will end the season with 56 – over to you!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons Cluedo e-mail truly the pits!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret &Hugh
Sometimes words are not enough! And the decision to send this automated e-mail to fans this morning given the shocking defeat against West Brom is one of those occasions. It appears to be the sickest joke imaginable and someone needs the dressing downs of dressing downs.
Look at the words, look at the beaming face and ask yourself: "Did the person in the West Ham marketing department responsible for this debacle actually have a clue what they were doing or saying? ClaretandHugh's phones haven't stopped since this shocking piece of promotional activity took place as it was a proper smack on the face for all those who travelled to the midlands yesterday. It beggars belief that anybody could dream up such a heading and associate it with the last piece of merchandise in the world that should have been promoted. For nobody this weekend inside the club appears to have a clue.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
What's gone wrong with Irons – an analysis
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
By Rich Sprent
Claret & Hugh
Six more wins or 1.38 points per game. That's the season's remaining target! West Ham sit in 8th spot, the Cup 'run' stopped before it got to mid-stride, but the pre-season target of 56pts still well within reach. The team is more than capable in achieving this total. Their early season form shows that they are able to play good attacking football and win points. However, the temporary solution to the injuries at central defence will need to be addressed. It is clear that Cheik Kouyate is a capable deputy at the back. However, it is also crystal that has a huge effect in the middle of the park. The club's failure to secure another midfielder in the transfer window means that the pedestrian pairing of Noble and Nolan is being seen far too often. It would be easy to direct all this at the club captain as many have done. He has shown that he can put in a shift and a recent article showed that the team win as many games with him as without him. Together however, their lack of ability, pace, acceleration and movement is a problem doubled. It causes less options for the player in possession; more pitch for him to have to ball carry ; gifts the opposition more time to reset and get bodies behind the ball; gives less space for the forwards to operate in and makes life more difficult. In brief, it stifles us.
And all of that explains Song is holding onto the ball; tries difficult passe with mire not coming off . It's why Downing sinks deeper to find the ball; why he is less effective; and he drifts out wide to find space.
It's why the fullbacks aren't raiding. Instead they are left covering after the midfield have been turned up the pitch; or are closed down with little support for the angle pass from the midfield. It is why Valencia and Sakho look like strangers to each other and their teammates. They revel in space and quick transition of play, hitting the opposition with pace and movement. How often have we seen the almost inevitable traffic jam of defenders around them by the time the ball is passed around the back to give time for either Nolan or Noble to find space to contribute? That or the inevitable easy long ball to try and turn the opposition back four. Meat and drink to a back six waiting to soak it up. One of either Noble or Nolan needs to be replaced in that centre pairing. Despite the populist view, to play the glittering way of early in the season, it really doesn't matter which of them. Kouyate is the obvious choice as Poyet is clearly not being considered ready yet. And if that means blooding Henry a little early or even trying Joey O'Brien back there. If not then 1.38pts per game looks like an arthritic lurch to the finish line with two players in the engine room who turn with the speed of the 15 bus at the White Horse, East Ham.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Let's have an end to the excuse finding for failure
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret &Hugh
I am fully aware I have a reputation as being an anti Sam man – I wish it wasn't the case but I have always believed in personal responsibility and owning up rather than finding a handy excuse in the event of dismal failure.
After yesterday's game I waited with huge anticipation that he apologise for our shocking non performance and getting his team selection wrong – notably in the case of Kevin Nolan.
Instead we were told the team's energy levels were down because of matches against Manchester United last weekend and Saints in midweek.
His explanation quite apart from making the lads sound like a bunch of wimps didn't bear the closest examination because the same had been true of West Brom who had beaten Swansea and drawn with Burnley.
Thankfully Adrian came out a little later declaring that the players should always be 100 per cent for every game – nice to hear a bit of honesty and the aforementioned personal responsibility.
It doesn't matter whether it's Sam Allardyce or our kids, honesty and a refusal to excuse poor behaviour or performance is unacceptable.
Please, can we have an end to this excuse finding…it's poor form!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham striker Carlton Cole praises Tottenham's Harry Kane on Twitter
HITC
Mathew Nash
The pair may be club level rivals but Cole rates Kane very highly. It is no secret now that Harry Kane is having an absolutely sublime season at Tottenham Hotspur. The talented striker has already netted 23 goals for the club this season and is improving by the game.
Such performances are helping Tottenham stay in the race for the Champions League places while he is also on the cusp of an England call-up, as Roy Hodgson confirmed to TheFA.com this week. His performances are also being noticed by a striker who has played for England and is currently employed by one of Tottenham's fiercest rivals, West Ham United. Carlton Cole may not be the most appreciated striker around but he has managed to play seven times for his country since making his debut in 2013. But Cole took a moment on Twitter yesterday to put London rivalry between Spurs and West Ham to one side and just pay tribute to the Tottenham striker, banging in the goals this season.
Here is the Tweet in question:
Carlton Cole ✔ @CarltonCole1
Follow
You got to rate talent when it's due and Harry Kane is doing a lot right now ✊
The reality is Cole's England days are over but in Kane the country surely realises, as Cole himself likely does, they have a far superior up-and-comer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
Sunday, February 15
Daily WHUFC News - 15th February 2015
Adrian sorry for Cup capitulation
WHUFC.com
Adrian offered his apologies to supporters after the Hammers' FA Cup exit at
West Bromwich Albion
14.02.2015
Adrian offered no excuses for West Ham United's performance as they saw
their FA Cup dream die at West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The Hammers were
thumped 4-0 to extinguish their hopes of going deep in the competition,
leaving Adrian and his teammates bitterly disappointed. Once Brown Ideye
had given the home side a 19th minute lead, the Baggies never looked back
and Adrian offered his apologies to the 5,500-strong travelling army as West
Ham rarely looked like responding. "Of course we are really disappointed.
It's a really, really bad result," he admitted. "They played well but we
never had an opportunity to get back into the game. They deserved the win,
and now we need to stand up and put in good performances in the league.
"Maybe the games we had this week had an effect, but we are professionals
and need to be at 100 percent for every match. "It broke the dream and we
are very disappointed for the fans, so sorry to them. They travelled a long
way to watch us and we played very badly. "We need to forget this horrible
game because we have a tough one against Tottenham next week."
The Hammers have the perfect opportunity to bounce back in style when they
visit Tottenham next weekend and Adrian says they will be fully focused on
making that happen. He added: "We need the next game to come quickly to help
us get over this one, and we have a good opportunity to show a good level."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'It was a game too far'
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce admitted West Ham United were second best as they crashed out
of the FA Cup
14.02.2015
West Ham United's FA Cup dream died at The Hawthorns as West Bromwich Albion
romped to a 4-0 fifth-round triumph. The Hammers conceded two goals in
either half and also had former Baggie Morgan Amalfitano sent-off to
complete a miserable day in the Black Country. Speaking to West Ham TV
following a hugely disappointing day that had begun with so much optimism,
Sam Allardyce admitted his team had been second best by a long distance. "We
have done very well this season but we've only got the league to think about
now," Big Sam lamented. "We had the FA Cup as one of our dreams, but that
has gone now and we cannot let the season die now. "We need to get the
players fit and keep their energy levels up and get us playing like we did
against Manchester United six days ago - let's get back to that level. "It
was a huge disappointment but I can see why. We didn't really get to our
level because we didn't have the energy to get to that level, so it's the
old saying that this was a game too far for us. "The players have had to
cope a lot of games in a short space of time but unfortunately they couldn't
cope it against a West Brom side who played very, very well. "If we'd have
been on our top form then I think we'd have given them a much better game
but we couldn't because we couldn't get our energy levels right because of
what we've had to do over the last few days, it has unfortunately taken its
toll."
West Brom took the lead through Brown Ideye on 20 minutes, but not before
Craig Dawson appeared to have handled in the build-up. Having gone in front,
the hosts grew in confidence and, after Mark Noble lost possession in
midfield, James Morrison lashed in a second three minutes before half-time.
Ideye then headed in a second from a deflected cross before Amalfitano's red
card, which was followed moments later by Berahino's low strike. "The first
goal really was our mistake but there was a handball from Dawson and we
think Ideye was offside," the managed observed. "The second one was another
mistake, but when you're fatigued you make more mistakes, there is no doubt
about that. "The last thing we wanted to do at Southampton was to play with
nine men, but because of a poor refereeing decision that has now been
corrected, we had to do that and it hasn't helped us. "The extra effort the
lads put in to get that result and to try to beat Manchester United was
outstanding and gave us two top-class performances. On Saturday, because we
had to play three times in a short space of time with the same players
because of injuries, we couldn't quite manage it. "We've flogged the players
and you can't keep flogging them because they couldn't cope with the
physical need to play against West Brom."
The manager empathised with the 5,300-plus supporters who travelled to The
Hawthorns, many of whom were caught up in serious incidents on the roads and
the railways. "Everybody is disappointed because we're in a very good
position in the league and we've done very well up to now," Big Sam
continued. "At the end of the day, the players will try as hard as they can,
but it wasn't their day and wasn't a day where they could muster up the sort
of energy they needed to. I know how disappointed the players are, but I
also know they have given all they could."
One player who did not escape the manager's ire was Amalfitano, who
petulantly kicked former team-mate Chris Brunt before slapping the Baggies
captain in the face. "It's another miss for next week and another body less,
which was unprofessional from his point of view.
"We will probably have some players back, but we want them all back and fit
because we haven't got the biggest of squads in terms of numbers."
One player who will be missing for the foreseeable future is Andy Carroll,
who the manager expressed his sympathy for ahead of his knee surgery this
coming Tuesday. "It's crippling mentally for Andy of course because it was
such an innocuous situation when you saw it - he just ran into a defender.
"These things have been testing Andy for a number of years so we all feel
for him and we all miss him and want him playing for us, because you saw
what an impact he has made."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joint-Chairman thanks fans
WHUFC.com
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan has thanked the Claret and Blue army for their
support on Saturday
14.02.2015
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan has thanked the near 6,000 West Ham United
fans who made the trip to The Hawthorns on Saturday on what was ultimately a
disappointing day for the Club. The Hammers sold out their entire allocation
for the FA Cup fifth-round tie with West Bromwich Albion and despite some
serious travel disruption on the way to the West Midlands on the road and
rails, the away end was packed out come the 12.45pm kick-off. The
Joint-Chairman said he shared the disappointment of the travelling fans over
the eventual 4-0 defeat, but believes next Sunday's game at Tottenham
Hotspur offers the perfect opportunity to bounce back.
"It was a very disappointing afternoon for everyone connected to West Ham -
the Board, the coaching staff, players but most of all the supporters," he
said. "I know that the manager and players will have wanted to do nothing
more than fire us to an FA Cup quarter-final tie but I think ultimately our
exertions over the past week took their toll. "We know it's doubly
disappointing as we had made progress in the FA Cup a priority for this
season as was demonstrated by our strong line-ups in the three games we'd
played previously. "It will take a few days to get over this loss but we
have to dust ourselves down as we have the fantastic opportunity of bouncing
back in the big London derby with our neighbours Tottenham Hotspur on
Sunday. "We hope to have several of our injured players back and with a good
recovery and preparation period I believe we can go to Tottenham with
confidence that we can get a result. "I'd like to personally thank every
West Ham fan that went to The Hawthorns and assure them that we will be
doing all we can to make sure we continue for push for as high a place as
possible over the remaining 13 games in the Premier League."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham FA Cup defeat at West Brom leads to apology for fans
BBC.co.uk
West Ham chairman David Gold and goalkeeper Adrian both apologised to the
travelling supporters following the Hammers' 4-0 FA Cup loss at West Brom.
The visitors conceded two goals in each half and finished with 10 men after
substitute Morgan Amalfitano was sent off after 70 minutes. Gold tweeted:
"I feel sorry for myself but most of all I feel sorry for the thousands of
travelling West Ham fans."
Adrian called the result "shameful" as West Brom eased into the last eight.
The Spaniard, able to play after his red card from a sending off against
Southampton in mid-week was over-turned, added via Twitter: "After this
shameful result in FA Cup, just we can say SORRY to all West Ham fans! Now
we need to be united and fight in Premier League."
West Ham are eighth in the Premier League table and lost for only the second
time in 10 games. Manager Sam Allardyce claimed draws against Manchester
United and Southampton - when they effectively ended the match with nine men
duo to Adrian's dismissal and an injury to Andy Carroll - in the previous
six days had taken their toll on his side. Allardyce said: "I would say it
(the defeat) was probably coming based on what we've had to cope with over
the last few weeks and I think it told on us, there's no doubt about that.
"I have to give West Brom a lot of credit - they were very good. But I look
at the players and there was not the energy we know they've got based on all
they've done in the last few weeks."
Amalfitano was sent off after pushing Chris Brunt in the face, moments after
being booked for kicking the West Brom defender. Allardyce added: "It's
unprofessional, isn't it? That will be dealt with, as always, internally and
we'll move on. "But I don't think it's made any difference to the result."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fatigue and injuries cost us a Cup run, says Allardyce
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 14th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce believes that fatigue cost his team a stab at the last eight
of this year's FA Cup. The Hammers were soundly beaten 4-0 at the Hawthorns
this afternoon having produced arguably their worst display of the season so
far, given that it was a reasonably strong starting eleven. However
Allardyce insisted this afternoon that the excesses of having to play three
games in seven days - combined with a string of injuries to vital players -
was responsible for today's hugely disappointing Cup exit. "It's probably
come based on what we've had to cope with over the last few weeks. It told
on us today, there's no doubt about that," he said. "I have to give West
Brom a lot of credit, they were very good - but I look at the players and
there wasn't the energy we know they've got. "Last Sunday we gave a huge
effort at 4 o'clock against Manchester United and then we had to do 30
minutes with nine men at Southampton on Wednesday. Those two games really
caught up with us today. "The players couldn't get anywhere near the energy
levels we know they can and we couldn't live with West Brom in the end. Even
though we thought the first goal was offside, they played much better on the
day."
Despite few (if any) players having done enough in the eyes of the
supporters to have been considered a success on the day, Allardyce refused
to blame his team for a defeat eerily reminiscent of last season's third
round defeat at Nottingham Forest. "I'm not going to criticise my players,
they've given everything they've got," he said. "Anybody who says they
haven't done that doesn't know much about football. "We just couldn't get
to the levels we can because they've played too many games, under the
circumstances, in less than six days. "Too many things have gone against us
in the end to prevent us from having a fantastic run in this competition.
We've not been able to cope squad-wise in the end because of the injuries
we've had - and it's caught up with us. "Andy is out, Jarvis is out,
Collins, Reid and Poyet. We want all of those back and hopefully none of
these players picked up an injury today. We've got some good recovery time
because we don't play Tottenham until a week tomorrow. "That will hopefully
give us time to enable the players to carry on where they left off last week
against Man United and Southampton but, unfortunately today when it
mattered, not against West Brom."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Amalfitano was unprofessional, says Allardyce
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 14th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Morgan Amalfitano is about to receive a hefty fine for his dismissal in this
afternoon's FA Cup defeat at former club West Bromwich Albion. The French
winger, a second half substitute had been on the pitch for just ten minutes
when he was issued a yellow card for a late tackle on Chris Brunt, then a
straight red for reacting to Brunt's reaction by pushing the former
Sheffield Wednesday midfielder in the face. "It's unprofessional, isn't it,"
Allardyce admitted after the match. "The punishment is laid out in our code
of conduct for getting sent off for something like that. It'll be dealt with
internally as with everybody else and we move on. "But I don't think it
made any difference to the result, I don't think we'd have got back in the
game the way we were today. He had come on and given us a little bit more on
the ball, but we just simply didn't cope today."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Brom 4-0 West Ham: Sam Allardyce supports players after FA Cup exit
Last Updated: 14/02/15 5:42pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce brushed off the fury of West Ham's travelling supporters after
his side were dumped out of the FA Cup at West Brom. The Hammers manager had
promised to focus on the FA Cup after securing Premier League safety, but
they were thrashed 4-0 in Saturday's fifth-round clash at The Hawthorns
thanks to two goals from Brown Ideye, plus strikes from James Morrison and
Saido Berahino. Allardyce was abused and his substitutions were jeered by
the away fans, but he refused to criticise his players at the end of a week
that had seen them record Premier League draws with Southampton and
Manchester United and lose striker Andy Carroll for the rest of the season
through injury. "Fans get disappointed because there's 6,500 who have
travelled up here and we have built the FA Cup to be one of our big
successes this year," he said. "When you have travelled this way and the
performance has not been as good as they have experienced for most of this
season, they express their disappointment. "I am going to defend the players
because we couldn't cope with the injury list and fixture list and it has
not given us the level we can play at. "I can't afford to get disappointed
in things like that, it's about me supporting the players. They have given
everything they could. "It wasn't enough but they have done their best. They
have given so much in such a short period of time. They were dead on their
feet."
Morgan Amalfitano was sent off for West Ham after pushing Chris Brunt in the
face just 10 minutes after coming on in the second half and Allardyce
admitted he was disappointed by the actions of the former Albion loanee. He
added: "It's irresponsible and the other thing is we are so short of bodies,
so the last thing we need is another suspension. I am sure Morgan will be
disappointed as well. We will have to cope."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST BROM 4, WEST HAM 0. SHAMBOLICALLY, PATHETICALLY AWFUL.
By David Hautzig 14 Feb 2015 at 16:19
West Ham Till I Die
The first time I knew that West Ham were on top of my personal mantle of
teams I support was in 2001. I fell out of bed after an epic night of
intoxication to go watch West Ham play Sunderland in the fifth round. There
were about 15 West Ham supporters at McCormacks in Manhattan, and I sat on a
bar stool eating as large a fry up as they had available. Hangover + Bacon =
Relief. When Freddie Kanoute scored the winner in the 76th minute, after
missing too many chances to count, I went mental. High fives, hugs, all the
crazy stuff we supporters do with perfect strangers in moments of euphoria.
It was very much the same in the sixth round against Spurs, except for the
result obviously. But the camaraderie got me and has kept hold of me ever
since.
The thing that made today's FA Cup tie at The Hawthorns special, at least in
my opinion, was that the entire West Ham community was up for the match.
It's been quite a few years since West Ham have been able to approach a cup
match with more enthusiasm than a quest for three points. But with 38 points
in the bag, and safety essentially achieved, it was very much about The Cup.
So I was more enthusiastic for today's game than I had been for any other
game this season.
Then the game had to start, ruining not only my day but likely the rest of
my week. Some of you have made comments about the length of some of my
reports. Without changing my writing style, I have tried to be cognizant of
the kinds of points I make in order to be more streamlined. Well, today you
will get the shortest report of my infamous career here. We were awful, and
I don't need to relive it any more than necessary.
Let's get this over with, shall we?
In the 20th minute, Craig Gardner sent a long pass to Dawson out wide.
Cresswell tried to intercept it, but it bounced off of Dawson and towards
the touch line. He gathered it, sent a cross to Ideye who calmly directed it
past Adrian. There were shouts that he was offside. There were shouts that
the ball hit Dawson's arm. On another day I might have addressed that. Not
today. Because even if one of those were called we would have lost this
game.
West Brom 1, West Ham 0.
In the 40th minute, West Ham's midfield collectively lost the ball near the
center circle. The ball came to James Morrison. As he strolled towards our
penalty area, James Tomkins decided he wanted to back up to have a better
look at what Morrison was doing. What he saw was a 25 yard strike that would
have taken Adrian's hand off if he had touched it.
Halftime. West Brom 2, West Ham 0.
As per usual after an awful first half, Twitter was ablaze with complaints
and suggestions. Valencia and Sakho were simply not on the same wavelength,
which wasn't helped by the former giving up the ball virtually every time he
touched it. Downing was ineffective at best, and despite the formation
placing him at the tip of the midfield diamond, he was often out wide on the
left. Song was only noticeable when he lost the ball or misplaced a pass. At
the end of the day, a weak Tomkins header from a corner was the only thing
that remotely resembled a threat.
In the 57th minute, after a long Alex Song type pass just missed Ideye, West
Ham's defense must have though it was mighty unfair for him to be denied
another goal after such a decent through ball. So they let Sessegnon
retrieve the ball and send it back into the box to a completely unmarked
Ideye.
West Brom 3, West Ham 0.
You know what I did then? I loaded my car with trash so my wife could go to
what we call The Dump over here. By the time I came back to the TV it was
4-0 and we were down to ten men. A quick rewind of the DVR showed Amalfitano
losing his mind and three games worth of work. Then some impressive
interplay between Berahino and Ideye ended with Berahino smashing it past
Adrian at the near post.
West Brom 4, West Ham 0.
There's no creative way to say this, and you can all add your own adjective
if you wish.
We were crap. I predict Sam will say that their first goal was offside,
should have been waved off, and we had to chase the game after that. He
might also say the injuries put us at a severe disadvantage, ignoring the
fact that it was the same starting eleven that played Manchester United off
the pitch for long stretches last week. Whatever excuse he and the players
offer up will be of little consolation to the over 5000 traveling supporters
who had to go through what sounded like a traffic nightmare to get there.
We are out of The FA Cup in a year that it was open for a team like ours to
make a serious run. I know this is cliché, but if we had played well and
lost (as I expected us to) then I could have felt good about the run so far.
But that was as shambolic a performance as I can remember under Sam.
Too bad I couldn't take West Ham to the dump.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pitiful Irons produce a shocker
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 14, 2015 in Whispers
West Bromwich Albion 4 West Ham 0
Claret & Hugh
West Ham produced their most pitiful performance of the season as they
crashed out of the FA Cup at the Hawthorns. And the shame became a nightmare
when Morgan Amalfatano was sent off ten minutes after coming on when pushing
Chris Brunt in the face. Kevin Nolan will get plenty of stick after being
subbed in the second half with even TV pundit Robbie Savage declaring: "I
don't think he gives the team anything much." And he followed up by
expressing his deepest sympathies for the Hammers fans declaring: "Their
team has given them nothing." He was right. This was an unspeakable
performance – woeful without a clue and even the usually impeccable Aaron
Cresswell was at fault for a couple of goals.
With just three wins in eight League games this appalling departure
departure from the FA Cup was more than any of us should have been expected
to take. No fight, no spirit, no courage, no desire, no result and no hope
on the strength of this performance. Sorry, this site gets stick for
negativity on occasions but that was inexcusable. We were second best
throughout and after falling behind on the 20th minute to Ideye's close
range stab after Cresswell had been caught out wide, it always looked like
curtains. In the 36th minute Gardner almost made it two when he unleashed a
thunderous shot from 22 yards which rebounded off the crossbar. But Morrison
put the home side further ahead when after some sloppy Irons challenges the
striker crashed home a drive from 25 yards. Twelve minutes into the second
half the Baggies were three up when Ideye grabbed his second heading home
from close range after Sessegnon's cross slams into Cresswell's foot, down
into the turf and up for the home striker to convert
Kevin Nolan was subbed on the hour when it should have been far earlier
given the paucity of his performance but 10 minutes later his replacement
Amalfitano was sent off for shoving Chris Brunt in the face. Two minutes
later Berahino had space in the right channel and smashed home at Adrian's
near post with Cresswell again failing to close his man down. The Hammers
failed to get a shot on target throughout the 90 minutes and a furious David
Sullivan was spotted leaving the stadum before the end along with hundreds
of Hammers fans.
Shocking – quite shocking.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Adrian: We need to be at 100 pc for every game
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Adrian has told manager Sam Allardyce and the fans that the players need to
be at 100 per cent for EVERY game! The manager claimed after yesterday's
defeat at West Brom that he would not criticise the players given their
energy levels were down after their efforts against Manchester United and at
southampton in midweek. But Adrian was seemingly having none of that as he
spoke after a game which most will want to erase from their memories as
quickly as possible. He told the official site: "Of course we are really
disappointed. It's a really, really bad result. "They played well but we
never had an opportunity to get back into the game. They deserved the win,
and now we need to stand up and put in good performances in the league.
"Maybe the games we had this week had an effect, but we are professionals
and need to be at 100 percent for every match."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Let's pause and remember "The Three"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Some things are far bigger than football! This morning – as the rows rage
over yesterday's FA Cup non performance at West Brom – three Hammers are
dead. Details are sketchy but they lost their lives in a road traffic
accident as they travelled to watch the team they had loved all their lives.
So before we continue with our appraisal of the match and its fall- out,
let's stop and pause and realise that in the midst of life is death. This
morning an extended family and friends are grieving and everybody at
ClaretandHugh sends their heartfelt condolences to them all. To the three
who are gone all we can say is RIP each one of you.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Richard Keys West Ham Banter
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
King of banter, Sports presenter Richard Keys has suggested he doesn't
expect West Ham to win too many more games this season following our 4-0
embarrassing defeat at the Hawthorns yesterday. Speaking on twitter account
after the match Keys said "Didn't expect W Brom to win that big today. Keep
a count on how many more games the Hammers win this season."
Let's hope it was only Banter!
West Ham last won in the league on 18th January against Hull but before that
it is Leicester on the 20th December. It leaves us just two wins from the
last ten in the Premier League. West Ham sit 12th in the Premier League
table and have been steadily dropping.
Richard Keys @richardajkeys
Follow
Didn't expect W Brom to win that big today. Keep a count on how many more
games the Hammers win this season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham with and without Kevin Nolan
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 14, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
By Sean Whetstone
I was disappointed to hear Kevin Nolan was booed yet again today, a fate he
has suffered several times from West Ham fans. Just last week there was also
talk of a mass walk-out and a banner of 'Nolan Out' at the Manchester United
game if Sam Allardyce started him. Despite his drop in form and his lack of
goals I believe Kevin Nolan still offers something to West Ham and he proved
that during the Manchester United draw. He is also a good captain and has a
major influence in the dressing room which cannot be underestimated. One
statistic doing the rounds on social media and forums recently suggested a
West Ham win rate with Nolan of just 33.33% with the win rate without Nolan
equaling 62.5%. I decided to check our these unverified statistics myself.
I calculated wins, losses and draws for the whole of this current season
including cup games where Kevin Nolan played 60 minutes or more. My
statistics show a win rate of 44% with Nolan and a win rate of 43% without
Nolan.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sullivan thanks travelling Irons army
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 14, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Sullivan has thanked the 6,000 fans who travelled to the Hawthorns
today and left bitterly disappointed after seeing the team beaten 4-0. He
experienced the fury of a group of mindless fans as he left the stadium who
hit him with a barrage of foul language on a video which emerged on Twitter.
ClaretandHugh personally apologised to the co chairman on behalf of all our
followers who had sent sent messages of support to the club chief via our
forum. We received a personal message of thanks and in a message via
www.whufc.com he added: "It was a very disappointing afternoon for everyone
connected to West Ham – the board, the coaching staff, players but most of
all the supporters. "I know that the manager and players will have wanted to
do nothing more than fire us to an FA Cup quarter-final tie but I think
ultimately our exertions over the past week took their toll. "I'd like to
personally thank every West Ham fan that went to The Hawthorns and assure
them that we will be doing all we can to make sure we continue for push for
as high a place as possible over the remaining 13 games in the Premier
League."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Shameful mob tirade at Sullivan
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 14, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham's 66-year-old chairman David Sullivan was this afternoon subjected
to the kind of posse mentality which wouldn't have been out of place in the
old wild west. After leaving the Hawthorns before the end of this
afternoon's debacle he attempted to shake hands with a group of Irons
supporters understandably furious at the team's appalling performance. He
made a gesture to shake hands with them all but was driven backwards by a
baying mob freely using the F word. The video can be viewed at the site but
this was not a mob of hoodies and teenagers. The people involved all looked
like middle aged guys who seriously should no better.To scream and holler at
an elderly gentleman is pretty desperate in any circumstances and quite what
they expected him to say as one demanded on three separate occasions "Can we
have some answers – and not on Twitter " goodness only knows. It was a sad
sad sight. Entirely embarrassing and entirely pointless. Oh and how ironic
that it emerged on the very outlet where the guy didn't want the answers –
Twitter! Frankly, it was shameful
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce blames fixture list
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 14, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & hugh
Sam Allardyce put today's pitiful performance down to "tiredness." The
Hammers boss refused to point the finger at any member of the teams saying:
"I wasn't shocked – it has been coming given the games we have had to cope
with. "There wasn't the energy level because of the big effort against
Manchester United and them playing with 10 men for 30 minutes at
Southampton. "West Brom were much better than us today but I'm not going to
criticise my players and those who do don't know very much about football.
"We also have players injured that we need to get back!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Angry West Ham fans confront co-owner David Sullivan after 4-0 FA Cup
thrashing by West Brom
Metro Sport Reporter for Metro.co.uk
Saturday 14 Feb 2015 6:45 pm
West Ham's humiliating 4-0 defeat to West Brom in the FA Cup on Saturday was
too much for some fans to take – after a handful of supporters were filmed
angrily confronting co-owner David Sullivan following the game. Sam
Allardyce – who was without striker Andy Carroll for the fifth-round match
at the Hawthorns – saw his Hammers side concede two goals either side of
half time while substitute Morgan Amalfitano was sent off for pushing Chris
Brunt in the face. Despite West Ham's eighth-place position in the Premier
League, the FA Cup elimination left some travelling Hammers fans angry after
Sullivan was confronted by frustrated supporters when he tried to shake
their hands following the game.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce responds to angry West Ham fans after FA Cup drubbing
Express.co.uk
Published: 22:30, Sat, February 14, 2015
By JOHN RICHARDSON
SAM ALLARDYCE'S long-term West Ham United future was thrown into doubt after
Hammers fans angrily turned on him during the FA Cup defeat at West Brom.
Despite only suffering his second defeat in 10 games and the Hammers lying
eighth in the Premier League, Big Sam was subjected to vicious personal
chanting from the 6,500 travelling supporters. Brown Ideye struck twice for
West Brom and by the final whistle the West Ham end was virtually empty.
Allardyce insisted his side were running on empty following a tough fixture
list and a run of injuries, including striker Andy Carroll. He said: "When
you come and see the performance and it isn't as good as we have been this
season the fans express their disappointment. "I will defend the players as
they couldn't cope with the fixture list." But the fans' backlash comes at a
critical time for Allardyce, with his contract up at the end of the season.
So far no talks have been scheduled.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
WHUFC.com
Adrian offered his apologies to supporters after the Hammers' FA Cup exit at
West Bromwich Albion
14.02.2015
Adrian offered no excuses for West Ham United's performance as they saw
their FA Cup dream die at West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. The Hammers were
thumped 4-0 to extinguish their hopes of going deep in the competition,
leaving Adrian and his teammates bitterly disappointed. Once Brown Ideye
had given the home side a 19th minute lead, the Baggies never looked back
and Adrian offered his apologies to the 5,500-strong travelling army as West
Ham rarely looked like responding. "Of course we are really disappointed.
It's a really, really bad result," he admitted. "They played well but we
never had an opportunity to get back into the game. They deserved the win,
and now we need to stand up and put in good performances in the league.
"Maybe the games we had this week had an effect, but we are professionals
and need to be at 100 percent for every match. "It broke the dream and we
are very disappointed for the fans, so sorry to them. They travelled a long
way to watch us and we played very badly. "We need to forget this horrible
game because we have a tough one against Tottenham next week."
The Hammers have the perfect opportunity to bounce back in style when they
visit Tottenham next weekend and Adrian says they will be fully focused on
making that happen. He added: "We need the next game to come quickly to help
us get over this one, and we have a good opportunity to show a good level."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'It was a game too far'
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce admitted West Ham United were second best as they crashed out
of the FA Cup
14.02.2015
West Ham United's FA Cup dream died at The Hawthorns as West Bromwich Albion
romped to a 4-0 fifth-round triumph. The Hammers conceded two goals in
either half and also had former Baggie Morgan Amalfitano sent-off to
complete a miserable day in the Black Country. Speaking to West Ham TV
following a hugely disappointing day that had begun with so much optimism,
Sam Allardyce admitted his team had been second best by a long distance. "We
have done very well this season but we've only got the league to think about
now," Big Sam lamented. "We had the FA Cup as one of our dreams, but that
has gone now and we cannot let the season die now. "We need to get the
players fit and keep their energy levels up and get us playing like we did
against Manchester United six days ago - let's get back to that level. "It
was a huge disappointment but I can see why. We didn't really get to our
level because we didn't have the energy to get to that level, so it's the
old saying that this was a game too far for us. "The players have had to
cope a lot of games in a short space of time but unfortunately they couldn't
cope it against a West Brom side who played very, very well. "If we'd have
been on our top form then I think we'd have given them a much better game
but we couldn't because we couldn't get our energy levels right because of
what we've had to do over the last few days, it has unfortunately taken its
toll."
West Brom took the lead through Brown Ideye on 20 minutes, but not before
Craig Dawson appeared to have handled in the build-up. Having gone in front,
the hosts grew in confidence and, after Mark Noble lost possession in
midfield, James Morrison lashed in a second three minutes before half-time.
Ideye then headed in a second from a deflected cross before Amalfitano's red
card, which was followed moments later by Berahino's low strike. "The first
goal really was our mistake but there was a handball from Dawson and we
think Ideye was offside," the managed observed. "The second one was another
mistake, but when you're fatigued you make more mistakes, there is no doubt
about that. "The last thing we wanted to do at Southampton was to play with
nine men, but because of a poor refereeing decision that has now been
corrected, we had to do that and it hasn't helped us. "The extra effort the
lads put in to get that result and to try to beat Manchester United was
outstanding and gave us two top-class performances. On Saturday, because we
had to play three times in a short space of time with the same players
because of injuries, we couldn't quite manage it. "We've flogged the players
and you can't keep flogging them because they couldn't cope with the
physical need to play against West Brom."
The manager empathised with the 5,300-plus supporters who travelled to The
Hawthorns, many of whom were caught up in serious incidents on the roads and
the railways. "Everybody is disappointed because we're in a very good
position in the league and we've done very well up to now," Big Sam
continued. "At the end of the day, the players will try as hard as they can,
but it wasn't their day and wasn't a day where they could muster up the sort
of energy they needed to. I know how disappointed the players are, but I
also know they have given all they could."
One player who did not escape the manager's ire was Amalfitano, who
petulantly kicked former team-mate Chris Brunt before slapping the Baggies
captain in the face. "It's another miss for next week and another body less,
which was unprofessional from his point of view.
"We will probably have some players back, but we want them all back and fit
because we haven't got the biggest of squads in terms of numbers."
One player who will be missing for the foreseeable future is Andy Carroll,
who the manager expressed his sympathy for ahead of his knee surgery this
coming Tuesday. "It's crippling mentally for Andy of course because it was
such an innocuous situation when you saw it - he just ran into a defender.
"These things have been testing Andy for a number of years so we all feel
for him and we all miss him and want him playing for us, because you saw
what an impact he has made."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joint-Chairman thanks fans
WHUFC.com
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan has thanked the Claret and Blue army for their
support on Saturday
14.02.2015
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan has thanked the near 6,000 West Ham United
fans who made the trip to The Hawthorns on Saturday on what was ultimately a
disappointing day for the Club. The Hammers sold out their entire allocation
for the FA Cup fifth-round tie with West Bromwich Albion and despite some
serious travel disruption on the way to the West Midlands on the road and
rails, the away end was packed out come the 12.45pm kick-off. The
Joint-Chairman said he shared the disappointment of the travelling fans over
the eventual 4-0 defeat, but believes next Sunday's game at Tottenham
Hotspur offers the perfect opportunity to bounce back.
"It was a very disappointing afternoon for everyone connected to West Ham -
the Board, the coaching staff, players but most of all the supporters," he
said. "I know that the manager and players will have wanted to do nothing
more than fire us to an FA Cup quarter-final tie but I think ultimately our
exertions over the past week took their toll. "We know it's doubly
disappointing as we had made progress in the FA Cup a priority for this
season as was demonstrated by our strong line-ups in the three games we'd
played previously. "It will take a few days to get over this loss but we
have to dust ourselves down as we have the fantastic opportunity of bouncing
back in the big London derby with our neighbours Tottenham Hotspur on
Sunday. "We hope to have several of our injured players back and with a good
recovery and preparation period I believe we can go to Tottenham with
confidence that we can get a result. "I'd like to personally thank every
West Ham fan that went to The Hawthorns and assure them that we will be
doing all we can to make sure we continue for push for as high a place as
possible over the remaining 13 games in the Premier League."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham FA Cup defeat at West Brom leads to apology for fans
BBC.co.uk
West Ham chairman David Gold and goalkeeper Adrian both apologised to the
travelling supporters following the Hammers' 4-0 FA Cup loss at West Brom.
The visitors conceded two goals in each half and finished with 10 men after
substitute Morgan Amalfitano was sent off after 70 minutes. Gold tweeted:
"I feel sorry for myself but most of all I feel sorry for the thousands of
travelling West Ham fans."
Adrian called the result "shameful" as West Brom eased into the last eight.
The Spaniard, able to play after his red card from a sending off against
Southampton in mid-week was over-turned, added via Twitter: "After this
shameful result in FA Cup, just we can say SORRY to all West Ham fans! Now
we need to be united and fight in Premier League."
West Ham are eighth in the Premier League table and lost for only the second
time in 10 games. Manager Sam Allardyce claimed draws against Manchester
United and Southampton - when they effectively ended the match with nine men
duo to Adrian's dismissal and an injury to Andy Carroll - in the previous
six days had taken their toll on his side. Allardyce said: "I would say it
(the defeat) was probably coming based on what we've had to cope with over
the last few weeks and I think it told on us, there's no doubt about that.
"I have to give West Brom a lot of credit - they were very good. But I look
at the players and there was not the energy we know they've got based on all
they've done in the last few weeks."
Amalfitano was sent off after pushing Chris Brunt in the face, moments after
being booked for kicking the West Brom defender. Allardyce added: "It's
unprofessional, isn't it? That will be dealt with, as always, internally and
we'll move on. "But I don't think it's made any difference to the result."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fatigue and injuries cost us a Cup run, says Allardyce
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 14th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce believes that fatigue cost his team a stab at the last eight
of this year's FA Cup. The Hammers were soundly beaten 4-0 at the Hawthorns
this afternoon having produced arguably their worst display of the season so
far, given that it was a reasonably strong starting eleven. However
Allardyce insisted this afternoon that the excesses of having to play three
games in seven days - combined with a string of injuries to vital players -
was responsible for today's hugely disappointing Cup exit. "It's probably
come based on what we've had to cope with over the last few weeks. It told
on us today, there's no doubt about that," he said. "I have to give West
Brom a lot of credit, they were very good - but I look at the players and
there wasn't the energy we know they've got. "Last Sunday we gave a huge
effort at 4 o'clock against Manchester United and then we had to do 30
minutes with nine men at Southampton on Wednesday. Those two games really
caught up with us today. "The players couldn't get anywhere near the energy
levels we know they can and we couldn't live with West Brom in the end. Even
though we thought the first goal was offside, they played much better on the
day."
Despite few (if any) players having done enough in the eyes of the
supporters to have been considered a success on the day, Allardyce refused
to blame his team for a defeat eerily reminiscent of last season's third
round defeat at Nottingham Forest. "I'm not going to criticise my players,
they've given everything they've got," he said. "Anybody who says they
haven't done that doesn't know much about football. "We just couldn't get
to the levels we can because they've played too many games, under the
circumstances, in less than six days. "Too many things have gone against us
in the end to prevent us from having a fantastic run in this competition.
We've not been able to cope squad-wise in the end because of the injuries
we've had - and it's caught up with us. "Andy is out, Jarvis is out,
Collins, Reid and Poyet. We want all of those back and hopefully none of
these players picked up an injury today. We've got some good recovery time
because we don't play Tottenham until a week tomorrow. "That will hopefully
give us time to enable the players to carry on where they left off last week
against Man United and Southampton but, unfortunately today when it
mattered, not against West Brom."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Amalfitano was unprofessional, says Allardyce
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 14th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Morgan Amalfitano is about to receive a hefty fine for his dismissal in this
afternoon's FA Cup defeat at former club West Bromwich Albion. The French
winger, a second half substitute had been on the pitch for just ten minutes
when he was issued a yellow card for a late tackle on Chris Brunt, then a
straight red for reacting to Brunt's reaction by pushing the former
Sheffield Wednesday midfielder in the face. "It's unprofessional, isn't it,"
Allardyce admitted after the match. "The punishment is laid out in our code
of conduct for getting sent off for something like that. It'll be dealt with
internally as with everybody else and we move on. "But I don't think it
made any difference to the result, I don't think we'd have got back in the
game the way we were today. He had come on and given us a little bit more on
the ball, but we just simply didn't cope today."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Brom 4-0 West Ham: Sam Allardyce supports players after FA Cup exit
Last Updated: 14/02/15 5:42pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce brushed off the fury of West Ham's travelling supporters after
his side were dumped out of the FA Cup at West Brom. The Hammers manager had
promised to focus on the FA Cup after securing Premier League safety, but
they were thrashed 4-0 in Saturday's fifth-round clash at The Hawthorns
thanks to two goals from Brown Ideye, plus strikes from James Morrison and
Saido Berahino. Allardyce was abused and his substitutions were jeered by
the away fans, but he refused to criticise his players at the end of a week
that had seen them record Premier League draws with Southampton and
Manchester United and lose striker Andy Carroll for the rest of the season
through injury. "Fans get disappointed because there's 6,500 who have
travelled up here and we have built the FA Cup to be one of our big
successes this year," he said. "When you have travelled this way and the
performance has not been as good as they have experienced for most of this
season, they express their disappointment. "I am going to defend the players
because we couldn't cope with the injury list and fixture list and it has
not given us the level we can play at. "I can't afford to get disappointed
in things like that, it's about me supporting the players. They have given
everything they could. "It wasn't enough but they have done their best. They
have given so much in such a short period of time. They were dead on their
feet."
Morgan Amalfitano was sent off for West Ham after pushing Chris Brunt in the
face just 10 minutes after coming on in the second half and Allardyce
admitted he was disappointed by the actions of the former Albion loanee. He
added: "It's irresponsible and the other thing is we are so short of bodies,
so the last thing we need is another suspension. I am sure Morgan will be
disappointed as well. We will have to cope."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST BROM 4, WEST HAM 0. SHAMBOLICALLY, PATHETICALLY AWFUL.
By David Hautzig 14 Feb 2015 at 16:19
West Ham Till I Die
The first time I knew that West Ham were on top of my personal mantle of
teams I support was in 2001. I fell out of bed after an epic night of
intoxication to go watch West Ham play Sunderland in the fifth round. There
were about 15 West Ham supporters at McCormacks in Manhattan, and I sat on a
bar stool eating as large a fry up as they had available. Hangover + Bacon =
Relief. When Freddie Kanoute scored the winner in the 76th minute, after
missing too many chances to count, I went mental. High fives, hugs, all the
crazy stuff we supporters do with perfect strangers in moments of euphoria.
It was very much the same in the sixth round against Spurs, except for the
result obviously. But the camaraderie got me and has kept hold of me ever
since.
The thing that made today's FA Cup tie at The Hawthorns special, at least in
my opinion, was that the entire West Ham community was up for the match.
It's been quite a few years since West Ham have been able to approach a cup
match with more enthusiasm than a quest for three points. But with 38 points
in the bag, and safety essentially achieved, it was very much about The Cup.
So I was more enthusiastic for today's game than I had been for any other
game this season.
Then the game had to start, ruining not only my day but likely the rest of
my week. Some of you have made comments about the length of some of my
reports. Without changing my writing style, I have tried to be cognizant of
the kinds of points I make in order to be more streamlined. Well, today you
will get the shortest report of my infamous career here. We were awful, and
I don't need to relive it any more than necessary.
Let's get this over with, shall we?
In the 20th minute, Craig Gardner sent a long pass to Dawson out wide.
Cresswell tried to intercept it, but it bounced off of Dawson and towards
the touch line. He gathered it, sent a cross to Ideye who calmly directed it
past Adrian. There were shouts that he was offside. There were shouts that
the ball hit Dawson's arm. On another day I might have addressed that. Not
today. Because even if one of those were called we would have lost this
game.
West Brom 1, West Ham 0.
In the 40th minute, West Ham's midfield collectively lost the ball near the
center circle. The ball came to James Morrison. As he strolled towards our
penalty area, James Tomkins decided he wanted to back up to have a better
look at what Morrison was doing. What he saw was a 25 yard strike that would
have taken Adrian's hand off if he had touched it.
Halftime. West Brom 2, West Ham 0.
As per usual after an awful first half, Twitter was ablaze with complaints
and suggestions. Valencia and Sakho were simply not on the same wavelength,
which wasn't helped by the former giving up the ball virtually every time he
touched it. Downing was ineffective at best, and despite the formation
placing him at the tip of the midfield diamond, he was often out wide on the
left. Song was only noticeable when he lost the ball or misplaced a pass. At
the end of the day, a weak Tomkins header from a corner was the only thing
that remotely resembled a threat.
In the 57th minute, after a long Alex Song type pass just missed Ideye, West
Ham's defense must have though it was mighty unfair for him to be denied
another goal after such a decent through ball. So they let Sessegnon
retrieve the ball and send it back into the box to a completely unmarked
Ideye.
West Brom 3, West Ham 0.
You know what I did then? I loaded my car with trash so my wife could go to
what we call The Dump over here. By the time I came back to the TV it was
4-0 and we were down to ten men. A quick rewind of the DVR showed Amalfitano
losing his mind and three games worth of work. Then some impressive
interplay between Berahino and Ideye ended with Berahino smashing it past
Adrian at the near post.
West Brom 4, West Ham 0.
There's no creative way to say this, and you can all add your own adjective
if you wish.
We were crap. I predict Sam will say that their first goal was offside,
should have been waved off, and we had to chase the game after that. He
might also say the injuries put us at a severe disadvantage, ignoring the
fact that it was the same starting eleven that played Manchester United off
the pitch for long stretches last week. Whatever excuse he and the players
offer up will be of little consolation to the over 5000 traveling supporters
who had to go through what sounded like a traffic nightmare to get there.
We are out of The FA Cup in a year that it was open for a team like ours to
make a serious run. I know this is cliché, but if we had played well and
lost (as I expected us to) then I could have felt good about the run so far.
But that was as shambolic a performance as I can remember under Sam.
Too bad I couldn't take West Ham to the dump.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pitiful Irons produce a shocker
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 14, 2015 in Whispers
West Bromwich Albion 4 West Ham 0
Claret & Hugh
West Ham produced their most pitiful performance of the season as they
crashed out of the FA Cup at the Hawthorns. And the shame became a nightmare
when Morgan Amalfatano was sent off ten minutes after coming on when pushing
Chris Brunt in the face. Kevin Nolan will get plenty of stick after being
subbed in the second half with even TV pundit Robbie Savage declaring: "I
don't think he gives the team anything much." And he followed up by
expressing his deepest sympathies for the Hammers fans declaring: "Their
team has given them nothing." He was right. This was an unspeakable
performance – woeful without a clue and even the usually impeccable Aaron
Cresswell was at fault for a couple of goals.
With just three wins in eight League games this appalling departure
departure from the FA Cup was more than any of us should have been expected
to take. No fight, no spirit, no courage, no desire, no result and no hope
on the strength of this performance. Sorry, this site gets stick for
negativity on occasions but that was inexcusable. We were second best
throughout and after falling behind on the 20th minute to Ideye's close
range stab after Cresswell had been caught out wide, it always looked like
curtains. In the 36th minute Gardner almost made it two when he unleashed a
thunderous shot from 22 yards which rebounded off the crossbar. But Morrison
put the home side further ahead when after some sloppy Irons challenges the
striker crashed home a drive from 25 yards. Twelve minutes into the second
half the Baggies were three up when Ideye grabbed his second heading home
from close range after Sessegnon's cross slams into Cresswell's foot, down
into the turf and up for the home striker to convert
Kevin Nolan was subbed on the hour when it should have been far earlier
given the paucity of his performance but 10 minutes later his replacement
Amalfitano was sent off for shoving Chris Brunt in the face. Two minutes
later Berahino had space in the right channel and smashed home at Adrian's
near post with Cresswell again failing to close his man down. The Hammers
failed to get a shot on target throughout the 90 minutes and a furious David
Sullivan was spotted leaving the stadum before the end along with hundreds
of Hammers fans.
Shocking – quite shocking.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Adrian: We need to be at 100 pc for every game
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Adrian has told manager Sam Allardyce and the fans that the players need to
be at 100 per cent for EVERY game! The manager claimed after yesterday's
defeat at West Brom that he would not criticise the players given their
energy levels were down after their efforts against Manchester United and at
southampton in midweek. But Adrian was seemingly having none of that as he
spoke after a game which most will want to erase from their memories as
quickly as possible. He told the official site: "Of course we are really
disappointed. It's a really, really bad result. "They played well but we
never had an opportunity to get back into the game. They deserved the win,
and now we need to stand up and put in good performances in the league.
"Maybe the games we had this week had an effect, but we are professionals
and need to be at 100 percent for every match."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Let's pause and remember "The Three"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Some things are far bigger than football! This morning – as the rows rage
over yesterday's FA Cup non performance at West Brom – three Hammers are
dead. Details are sketchy but they lost their lives in a road traffic
accident as they travelled to watch the team they had loved all their lives.
So before we continue with our appraisal of the match and its fall- out,
let's stop and pause and realise that in the midst of life is death. This
morning an extended family and friends are grieving and everybody at
ClaretandHugh sends their heartfelt condolences to them all. To the three
who are gone all we can say is RIP each one of you.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Richard Keys West Ham Banter
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 15, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
King of banter, Sports presenter Richard Keys has suggested he doesn't
expect West Ham to win too many more games this season following our 4-0
embarrassing defeat at the Hawthorns yesterday. Speaking on twitter account
after the match Keys said "Didn't expect W Brom to win that big today. Keep
a count on how many more games the Hammers win this season."
Let's hope it was only Banter!
West Ham last won in the league on 18th January against Hull but before that
it is Leicester on the 20th December. It leaves us just two wins from the
last ten in the Premier League. West Ham sit 12th in the Premier League
table and have been steadily dropping.
Richard Keys @richardajkeys
Follow
Didn't expect W Brom to win that big today. Keep a count on how many more
games the Hammers win this season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham with and without Kevin Nolan
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 14, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
By Sean Whetstone
I was disappointed to hear Kevin Nolan was booed yet again today, a fate he
has suffered several times from West Ham fans. Just last week there was also
talk of a mass walk-out and a banner of 'Nolan Out' at the Manchester United
game if Sam Allardyce started him. Despite his drop in form and his lack of
goals I believe Kevin Nolan still offers something to West Ham and he proved
that during the Manchester United draw. He is also a good captain and has a
major influence in the dressing room which cannot be underestimated. One
statistic doing the rounds on social media and forums recently suggested a
West Ham win rate with Nolan of just 33.33% with the win rate without Nolan
equaling 62.5%. I decided to check our these unverified statistics myself.
I calculated wins, losses and draws for the whole of this current season
including cup games where Kevin Nolan played 60 minutes or more. My
statistics show a win rate of 44% with Nolan and a win rate of 43% without
Nolan.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sullivan thanks travelling Irons army
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 14, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Sullivan has thanked the 6,000 fans who travelled to the Hawthorns
today and left bitterly disappointed after seeing the team beaten 4-0. He
experienced the fury of a group of mindless fans as he left the stadium who
hit him with a barrage of foul language on a video which emerged on Twitter.
ClaretandHugh personally apologised to the co chairman on behalf of all our
followers who had sent sent messages of support to the club chief via our
forum. We received a personal message of thanks and in a message via
www.whufc.com he added: "It was a very disappointing afternoon for everyone
connected to West Ham – the board, the coaching staff, players but most of
all the supporters. "I know that the manager and players will have wanted to
do nothing more than fire us to an FA Cup quarter-final tie but I think
ultimately our exertions over the past week took their toll. "I'd like to
personally thank every West Ham fan that went to The Hawthorns and assure
them that we will be doing all we can to make sure we continue for push for
as high a place as possible over the remaining 13 games in the Premier
League."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Shameful mob tirade at Sullivan
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 14, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham's 66-year-old chairman David Sullivan was this afternoon subjected
to the kind of posse mentality which wouldn't have been out of place in the
old wild west. After leaving the Hawthorns before the end of this
afternoon's debacle he attempted to shake hands with a group of Irons
supporters understandably furious at the team's appalling performance. He
made a gesture to shake hands with them all but was driven backwards by a
baying mob freely using the F word. The video can be viewed at the site but
this was not a mob of hoodies and teenagers. The people involved all looked
like middle aged guys who seriously should no better.To scream and holler at
an elderly gentleman is pretty desperate in any circumstances and quite what
they expected him to say as one demanded on three separate occasions "Can we
have some answers – and not on Twitter " goodness only knows. It was a sad
sad sight. Entirely embarrassing and entirely pointless. Oh and how ironic
that it emerged on the very outlet where the guy didn't want the answers –
Twitter! Frankly, it was shameful
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce blames fixture list
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 14, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & hugh
Sam Allardyce put today's pitiful performance down to "tiredness." The
Hammers boss refused to point the finger at any member of the teams saying:
"I wasn't shocked – it has been coming given the games we have had to cope
with. "There wasn't the energy level because of the big effort against
Manchester United and them playing with 10 men for 30 minutes at
Southampton. "West Brom were much better than us today but I'm not going to
criticise my players and those who do don't know very much about football.
"We also have players injured that we need to get back!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Angry West Ham fans confront co-owner David Sullivan after 4-0 FA Cup
thrashing by West Brom
Metro Sport Reporter for Metro.co.uk
Saturday 14 Feb 2015 6:45 pm
West Ham's humiliating 4-0 defeat to West Brom in the FA Cup on Saturday was
too much for some fans to take – after a handful of supporters were filmed
angrily confronting co-owner David Sullivan following the game. Sam
Allardyce – who was without striker Andy Carroll for the fifth-round match
at the Hawthorns – saw his Hammers side concede two goals either side of
half time while substitute Morgan Amalfitano was sent off for pushing Chris
Brunt in the face. Despite West Ham's eighth-place position in the Premier
League, the FA Cup elimination left some travelling Hammers fans angry after
Sullivan was confronted by frustrated supporters when he tried to shake
their hands following the game.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce responds to angry West Ham fans after FA Cup drubbing
Express.co.uk
Published: 22:30, Sat, February 14, 2015
By JOHN RICHARDSON
SAM ALLARDYCE'S long-term West Ham United future was thrown into doubt after
Hammers fans angrily turned on him during the FA Cup defeat at West Brom.
Despite only suffering his second defeat in 10 games and the Hammers lying
eighth in the Premier League, Big Sam was subjected to vicious personal
chanting from the 6,500 travelling supporters. Brown Ideye struck twice for
West Brom and by the final whistle the West Ham end was virtually empty.
Allardyce insisted his side were running on empty following a tough fixture
list and a run of injuries, including striker Andy Carroll. He said: "When
you come and see the performance and it isn't as good as we have been this
season the fans express their disappointment. "I will defend the players as
they couldn't cope with the fixture list." But the fans' backlash comes at a
critical time for Allardyce, with his contract up at the end of the season.
So far no talks have been scheduled.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
