Wednesday, 27 May 2009
Wondering if Upson will stay?
Do we even need him. Tomka and Ginge are pretty good and we should have Gabbidon back - if he comes back as good as he was that will be enough - wih Neill - if we can keep hold of him - as cover. Specs i'm afraid probably has to go elsewhere - otherwise he'll never play.
Tuesday, 5 May 2009
West Ham in the news
FA to investigate Stoke-West Ham troubleTelegraph.co.uk - United KingdomThe Football Association is to investigate crowd trouble involving West Ham and Stoke supporters at the Britannia Stadium on Saturday. ...See all stories on this topic
Telegraph.co.ukWest Ham look to European football as Stoke fall at homeTelegraph.co.uk - United KingdomWest Ham want European football, and they did what only Manchester United, Chelsea and Everton had achieved before them in the league this season, ...See all stories on this topic
Daily MailNew name, same game: West Ham, Spurs, Fulham and Manchester City ...Daily Mail - UKBy Laura Williamson While the opportunity to play 19 extra games a season may be seen as a poisoned chalice by some, European football brings kudos, ...See all stories on this topic
Fab Ab so close to rescuing PottersThis is the Sentinel - Derby,England,UKNor should defeat to West Ham come as any great surprise to students of recent history because this was Stoke's seventh defeat in their last eight meetings, ...See all stories on this topic
FansFC.comWest Ham United in for County goalkeeperFansFC.com - UKThe 22-year-old goalkeeper is expected to recover from a shoulder injury to earn his first Wales caps in the summer, after representing his country at ...See all stories on this topic
West Ham Survive Stoke's Power to Keep Eyes on EuropeBuzzle - Costa Mesa,CA,USANor did West Ham win every tussle, aerial or otherwise, but they won most, and when they didn't, they got lucky. Against his old team, Matthew Etherington's ...See all stories on this topic
Stoke 0 West Ham 1: In-form Green is catching on for the HammersDaily Mail - UKBy Chris Wheeler If Fabio Capello picked England goalkeepers on the basis of how they coped with an aerial bombardment at Stoke, West Ham's Robert Green ...See all stories on this topic
Telegraph.co.ukWest Ham look to European football as Stoke fall at homeTelegraph.co.uk - United KingdomWest Ham want European football, and they did what only Manchester United, Chelsea and Everton had achieved before them in the league this season, ...See all stories on this topic
Daily MailNew name, same game: West Ham, Spurs, Fulham and Manchester City ...Daily Mail - UKBy Laura Williamson While the opportunity to play 19 extra games a season may be seen as a poisoned chalice by some, European football brings kudos, ...See all stories on this topic
Fab Ab so close to rescuing PottersThis is the Sentinel - Derby,England,UKNor should defeat to West Ham come as any great surprise to students of recent history because this was Stoke's seventh defeat in their last eight meetings, ...See all stories on this topic
FansFC.comWest Ham United in for County goalkeeperFansFC.com - UKThe 22-year-old goalkeeper is expected to recover from a shoulder injury to earn his first Wales caps in the summer, after representing his country at ...See all stories on this topic
West Ham Survive Stoke's Power to Keep Eyes on EuropeBuzzle - Costa Mesa,CA,USANor did West Ham win every tussle, aerial or otherwise, but they won most, and when they didn't, they got lucky. Against his old team, Matthew Etherington's ...See all stories on this topic
Stoke 0 West Ham 1: In-form Green is catching on for the HammersDaily Mail - UKBy Chris Wheeler If Fabio Capello picked England goalkeepers on the basis of how they coped with an aerial bombardment at Stoke, West Ham's Robert Green ...See all stories on this topic
Monday, 27 April 2009
Zola plans to take Hammers to Europe
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola says his long-term plans for the club won’t be derailed even if they miss out on Europe this season.
As predicted in the Gazette last week, Zola and his assistant Steve Clarke both signed extended contracts with the club last week which should see them remain at the helm until 2013.
They have committed their futures to the club and continue to talk about ‘the project’ as being in its infancy.
The Hammers’ defeat to Chelsea on Saturday saw them slip out of the European qualification places for the first time in weeks but Zola insists European qualification will come – even if it is not to be this season.
He said: “We want to be, in a few years time, competing with the top four, the top five. “That is the project and we have started this year. It is just the beginning.
“We have a lot of enthusiasm and we trust what we are doing. We will see what happens.“One thing is for sure, it is a good thing not only on the pitch but off the pitch. I work very well with Scott Duxbury and Gianluca Nani and we are going to try everything to be successful.
“I like what I am doing so it was easy to sign here for another four years.
“They have treated me very well and they just look after me and my staff. It was an easy decision.”
Despite rumours of financial meltdown, Zola is also confident that he will be able to strengthen by dipping into the transfer market.
“The next stage is we will be trying to improve the squad,” said the Italian.
“We know we have to improve the team so we are going to try. “Don't be surprised if there will be a few signings and hopefully when they come they will take the level of the team even higher.
“I will be a better manager next season. It is my first season and I am just starting. I am not presumptuous to say I know everything about the game.
“There are so many things I need to learn and I am very much willing to learn … I am pleased to make mistakes because you get better only through those mistakes.”
With a tough trip to Stoke City this week and a list of unfit players the manager knows seventh place will not be easy, but he is determined not to give up until the end.
“I don't mind dropping out from the first seven now as long as I can be there on the last game,” he said.
“That is the point. We know it is going to be up and down until the end but for sure we are not going to give up until the end.”
As predicted in the Gazette last week, Zola and his assistant Steve Clarke both signed extended contracts with the club last week which should see them remain at the helm until 2013.
They have committed their futures to the club and continue to talk about ‘the project’ as being in its infancy.
The Hammers’ defeat to Chelsea on Saturday saw them slip out of the European qualification places for the first time in weeks but Zola insists European qualification will come – even if it is not to be this season.
He said: “We want to be, in a few years time, competing with the top four, the top five. “That is the project and we have started this year. It is just the beginning.
“We have a lot of enthusiasm and we trust what we are doing. We will see what happens.“One thing is for sure, it is a good thing not only on the pitch but off the pitch. I work very well with Scott Duxbury and Gianluca Nani and we are going to try everything to be successful.
“I like what I am doing so it was easy to sign here for another four years.
“They have treated me very well and they just look after me and my staff. It was an easy decision.”
Despite rumours of financial meltdown, Zola is also confident that he will be able to strengthen by dipping into the transfer market.
“The next stage is we will be trying to improve the squad,” said the Italian.
“We know we have to improve the team so we are going to try. “Don't be surprised if there will be a few signings and hopefully when they come they will take the level of the team even higher.
“I will be a better manager next season. It is my first season and I am just starting. I am not presumptuous to say I know everything about the game.
“There are so many things I need to learn and I am very much willing to learn … I am pleased to make mistakes because you get better only through those mistakes.”
With a tough trip to Stoke City this week and a list of unfit players the manager knows seventh place will not be easy, but he is determined not to give up until the end.
“I don't mind dropping out from the first seven now as long as I can be there on the last game,” he said.
“That is the point. We know it is going to be up and down until the end but for sure we are not going to give up until the end.”
Tuesday, 21 April 2009
Zola commits to Upton Park ahead of Chelsea clash
Gianfranco Zola has reiterated his commitment to West Ham ahead of an emotional reunion with former club Chelsea this weekend.
Zola is expected to commit his and Steve Clarke’s future to Upton Park by signing an improved contract in the next week or so despite the fact Saturday’s opponents are expected to be managerless when the season ends.
The Italian said this week: “The club is looking after us. “We are talking about a new contract and it is looking good so maybe in the next few weeks it will happen.”
The news will be music to the ears of Hammers fans.After a successful spell at West Ham, Zola and assistant Clarke have been mentioned as potential candidates for the Chelsea job.The Blues currently have a time share on Russia coach Guus Hiddink and are flying high at the moment with an FA Cup final and Champions League semi final to look forward to.
But Zola was full of praise for his West Ham team, the club’s board and supporters following last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Aston Villa.
He said: “It is good, the club has been very good to us and we appreciate that. “I believe the club is going to improve and there will be stability.
“The situation will be better, but we have been through everything this year so we are not scared of anything.”
Speaking about the depleted squad which came from behind to secure an important point at Villa Park, Zola added: “My team dug in under pressure. It keeps happening.
“We had to take out James Collins in the first half because of a problem with his calf but it has been like this since the beginning.”
Despite missing midfielders Scott Parker, Radoslav Kovac, Jack Collison, Valon Behrami as well as striker Carlton Cole, West Ham caused Villa serious problems.Youngsters Junior Stanislas, James Tomkins and the mercurial Mark Noble combined with senior stars Luis Boa Morte, David di Michele and goalscorer Diego Tristan to ensure the Hammers held on to seventh place in the league.
Zola said: “I like this because the team never lets itself down. They always fight against everything that comes against them. I am delighted about their attitude.”
The manager believes it is this attitude which gives them a serious chance of hanging on to seventh spot and claiming a European place.
“We fight to the end,” he said.
“They just need to play and keep the same attitude no matter what comes in front of us. “We always have to give 100 per cent and that has been the spirit, the trademark of this team.”
A trademark Hammers fans will hope continues long into the future with Zola and Clarke at the helm.
Zola is expected to commit his and Steve Clarke’s future to Upton Park by signing an improved contract in the next week or so despite the fact Saturday’s opponents are expected to be managerless when the season ends.
The Italian said this week: “The club is looking after us. “We are talking about a new contract and it is looking good so maybe in the next few weeks it will happen.”
The news will be music to the ears of Hammers fans.After a successful spell at West Ham, Zola and assistant Clarke have been mentioned as potential candidates for the Chelsea job.The Blues currently have a time share on Russia coach Guus Hiddink and are flying high at the moment with an FA Cup final and Champions League semi final to look forward to.
But Zola was full of praise for his West Ham team, the club’s board and supporters following last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Aston Villa.
He said: “It is good, the club has been very good to us and we appreciate that. “I believe the club is going to improve and there will be stability.
“The situation will be better, but we have been through everything this year so we are not scared of anything.”
Speaking about the depleted squad which came from behind to secure an important point at Villa Park, Zola added: “My team dug in under pressure. It keeps happening.
“We had to take out James Collins in the first half because of a problem with his calf but it has been like this since the beginning.”
Despite missing midfielders Scott Parker, Radoslav Kovac, Jack Collison, Valon Behrami as well as striker Carlton Cole, West Ham caused Villa serious problems.Youngsters Junior Stanislas, James Tomkins and the mercurial Mark Noble combined with senior stars Luis Boa Morte, David di Michele and goalscorer Diego Tristan to ensure the Hammers held on to seventh place in the league.
Zola said: “I like this because the team never lets itself down. They always fight against everything that comes against them. I am delighted about their attitude.”
The manager believes it is this attitude which gives them a serious chance of hanging on to seventh spot and claiming a European place.
“We fight to the end,” he said.
“They just need to play and keep the same attitude no matter what comes in front of us. “We always have to give 100 per cent and that has been the spirit, the trademark of this team.”
A trademark Hammers fans will hope continues long into the future with Zola and Clarke at the helm.
Tuesday, 14 April 2009
Zola challenges youngsters in wake of 'Arry's swipe
Gianfranco Zola has challenged his young stars to go on and prove themselves at the highest level following comments from former West Ham manager Harry Redknapp.
Redknapp, whose Tottenham Hotspur side overcame Zola’s depleted Hammers 1-0 at the weekend, told the press West Ham’s current youngsters are “not in the same class” as the teenagers he managed at Upton Park.
Redknapp was in charge of the Hammers when academy director Tony Carr produced Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick, Joe Cole, Rio Ferdinand and Jermain Defoe.
Four of whom played in last season’s Champion’s League final.
But current Hammers manager Zola believes that youngsters like Mark Noble, Jack Collison, James Tomkins, Junior Stanislas and Freddie Sears are all capable of ging on to great things – if they are willing to work hard and listen.
Zola said: “I believe that when Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard or Joe Cole were coming through, they were just promising. Then they improved.
“It is just down to my players. If they work hard everyday and keep the right attitude, they can do that.”
Zola – considered by many to be among the top five players to ever grace the Premier League – pointed out that when he was younger many people felt he would never make it at the top level.
But he knew skill alone was never going to be enough.
“I believe that everybody owns their own destiny,” said the Italian.
“When I was started there were a few that said I wouldn't become a player but they didn't know my attitude and my mentality. I believe my players have the same attitude and they can become important players.”
“If they push themselves hard and they believe in what they are doing they are going to get beyond the limits that maybe people are putting on them right now.
“I would like to say that if they achieve something it is down to me but it is not like that.
“I can only show them the direction but after that they have to move on and it is all totally down to them. As far as I am concerned I will always be there showing them the line, but the work is down to them.”
Zola, who started the Spurs game with Stanislas, Tomkins and Noble will once again be relying on his young stars at the weekend.
He takes his team to high flying Aston Villa on Saturday looking to secure the points that will to keep the club in seventh place.
Currently they are on point ahead of Fulham and three ahead of Spurs.
Redknapp, whose Tottenham Hotspur side overcame Zola’s depleted Hammers 1-0 at the weekend, told the press West Ham’s current youngsters are “not in the same class” as the teenagers he managed at Upton Park.
Redknapp was in charge of the Hammers when academy director Tony Carr produced Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick, Joe Cole, Rio Ferdinand and Jermain Defoe.
Four of whom played in last season’s Champion’s League final.
But current Hammers manager Zola believes that youngsters like Mark Noble, Jack Collison, James Tomkins, Junior Stanislas and Freddie Sears are all capable of ging on to great things – if they are willing to work hard and listen.
Zola said: “I believe that when Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard or Joe Cole were coming through, they were just promising. Then they improved.
“It is just down to my players. If they work hard everyday and keep the right attitude, they can do that.”
Zola – considered by many to be among the top five players to ever grace the Premier League – pointed out that when he was younger many people felt he would never make it at the top level.
But he knew skill alone was never going to be enough.
“I believe that everybody owns their own destiny,” said the Italian.
“When I was started there were a few that said I wouldn't become a player but they didn't know my attitude and my mentality. I believe my players have the same attitude and they can become important players.”
“If they push themselves hard and they believe in what they are doing they are going to get beyond the limits that maybe people are putting on them right now.
“I would like to say that if they achieve something it is down to me but it is not like that.
“I can only show them the direction but after that they have to move on and it is all totally down to them. As far as I am concerned I will always be there showing them the line, but the work is down to them.”
Zola, who started the Spurs game with Stanislas, Tomkins and Noble will once again be relying on his young stars at the weekend.
He takes his team to high flying Aston Villa on Saturday looking to secure the points that will to keep the club in seventh place.
Currently they are on point ahead of Fulham and three ahead of Spurs.
Thursday, 9 April 2009
Today's West Ham press...10years since away win at Spurs and much more
Yahoo! EurosportPremier League - Match facts: Tottenham v West HamYahoo! Eurosport - London,UKWest Ham have not won a Premier League game at White Hart Lane since April 24, 1999, almost 10 years ago. The Hammers have scored just six goals in their ...See all stories on this topic
Barking & Dagenham RecorderGrounds for optimismBarking & Dagenham Recorder - London,England,UKWEST HAM are expected to move into their new training ground for the start of next season - but a new stadium is likely to take a whole lot longer! ...See all stories on this topic
Six players have also been banned, with West Ham's Radoslav Kovac ...BBC Sport - UKA string of bad results prompted Rada's sacking, while a breach of discipline after last week's defeat by Slovakia led to the player bans. ...See all stories on this topic
Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham previewGuardian Series - UKLAST MEETING: West Ham 0-2 Tottenham (13-09-08) Ledley King’s 68th-minute goal and a late strike from Jamie O’Hara confined the Hammers to defeat. ...See all stories on this topic
West Ham Reserves 1, Stoke City Reserves 0This is the Sentinel - Derby,England,UKBy Dave Knapper Email to a friend Digg STOKE City’s reserves failed to get their revenge against West Ham United after slipping to defeat by a single ...See all stories on this topic
Barking & Dagenham RecorderGrounds for optimismBarking & Dagenham Recorder - London,England,UKWEST HAM are expected to move into their new training ground for the start of next season - but a new stadium is likely to take a whole lot longer! ...See all stories on this topic
Six players have also been banned, with West Ham's Radoslav Kovac ...BBC Sport - UKA string of bad results prompted Rada's sacking, while a breach of discipline after last week's defeat by Slovakia led to the player bans. ...See all stories on this topic
Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham previewGuardian Series - UKLAST MEETING: West Ham 0-2 Tottenham (13-09-08) Ledley King’s 68th-minute goal and a late strike from Jamie O’Hara confined the Hammers to defeat. ...See all stories on this topic
West Ham Reserves 1, Stoke City Reserves 0This is the Sentinel - Derby,England,UKBy Dave Knapper Email to a friend Digg STOKE City’s reserves failed to get their revenge against West Ham United after slipping to defeat by a single ...See all stories on this topic
Tuesday, 7 April 2009
West Ham head to Spurs in good form - but it'll be tough
West Ham will head into this weekend’s London derby at Tottenham Hotspur on the back of five games without defeat following a good 2-0 win over Sunderland.
Gianfranco Zola’s Midas touch helped a patched up Hammers side turn in one of their best performances on the season on Saturday
The victory over strugglers Sunderland went with the form book but the full story of last-minute team changes, players playing out of position and youth team stars chipping in with the all-important goals had the manager purring after the game.
Zola lost both Scott Parker and Radoslav Kovac in the run-up to the game - having already lost Carlton Cole to injury last week.
Forced to shuffle his pack, Zola’s decision to play Lucas Neill in central midfield and hand a first senior start to teenage striker Junior Stanislaw - meant his decision to play James Tomkins ahead of a fit again James Collins went almost un-noticed.
However it was Stanislas and Tomkins who proved the match winners with goals either side of half time securing a vital home win.
One which Zola ranked as his ‘best yet.
“Considering all the difficulties before this match,” said Zola “with it being an international break and I've had two players - Jonathan Spector and Lucas Neill - that didn't train and only came back yesterday. So with other players away and so many injuries I can say that this has been the best victory of all.”
Speaking about his 19 and 20-year-old goalscorers the Italian added: “It's good to see the young players like Junior Stanislas and James Tomkins doing so well. It's good because we need new strength and new injuries and they can help us achieve what we want to achieve.”
“I was very impressed. Tomkins I knew, he has been playing for a while and I had no problems with him. “Junior was a surprise as I knew about his qualities and technical skills and qualities. I didn't know about his mental strength. Today it was tough, he looked like he was a veteran so it was a good point for him and a good point for me also.”
In fact it was a good three points for Zola’s West Ham who have now restored their three point lead over eighth placed Wigan Athletic.
They now face an extremely tough trip to Spurs but could end their north London rivals’ hopes of European football if they can somehow secure all three points at White Hart Lane.
Gianfranco Zola’s Midas touch helped a patched up Hammers side turn in one of their best performances on the season on Saturday
The victory over strugglers Sunderland went with the form book but the full story of last-minute team changes, players playing out of position and youth team stars chipping in with the all-important goals had the manager purring after the game.
Zola lost both Scott Parker and Radoslav Kovac in the run-up to the game - having already lost Carlton Cole to injury last week.
Forced to shuffle his pack, Zola’s decision to play Lucas Neill in central midfield and hand a first senior start to teenage striker Junior Stanislaw - meant his decision to play James Tomkins ahead of a fit again James Collins went almost un-noticed.
However it was Stanislas and Tomkins who proved the match winners with goals either side of half time securing a vital home win.
One which Zola ranked as his ‘best yet.
“Considering all the difficulties before this match,” said Zola “with it being an international break and I've had two players - Jonathan Spector and Lucas Neill - that didn't train and only came back yesterday. So with other players away and so many injuries I can say that this has been the best victory of all.”
Speaking about his 19 and 20-year-old goalscorers the Italian added: “It's good to see the young players like Junior Stanislas and James Tomkins doing so well. It's good because we need new strength and new injuries and they can help us achieve what we want to achieve.”
“I was very impressed. Tomkins I knew, he has been playing for a while and I had no problems with him. “Junior was a surprise as I knew about his qualities and technical skills and qualities. I didn't know about his mental strength. Today it was tough, he looked like he was a veteran so it was a good point for him and a good point for me also.”
In fact it was a good three points for Zola’s West Ham who have now restored their three point lead over eighth placed Wigan Athletic.
They now face an extremely tough trip to Spurs but could end their north London rivals’ hopes of European football if they can somehow secure all three points at White Hart Lane.
Monday, 6 April 2009
All the latest web news about West Ham
Luis Boa Morte Used Mind Power In West Ham's Win Over SunderlandGoal.com - SwitzerlandWest Ham United winger Luis Bo Morte played in an unfamilar position on the right wing yesterday but still played a crucial role in the Hammers first goal ...See all stories on this topic
Tomkins: The future's brightTeamtalk.com - UKWest Ham youngster James Tomkins insists there is plenty more talent to emerge from the club's academy thanks to the work of Tony Carr. ...See all stories on this topic
SkySportsZola sets sights on EuropeSkySports - USABy Jamie Casey Last updated: 4th April 2009 West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola has admitted he has one eye on European qualification following their 2-0 win over ...See all stories on this topic
West Ham United 2 Sunderland 0Sunday Sun - Newcastle upon Tyne,England,UKGoals from homegrown youngsters Junior Stanislas on 43 minutes and James Tomkins seven minutes into the second half gave West Ham a victory which lifted ...See all stories on this topic
Stanislas and Tomkins top of class at West Ham's academyIndependent - London,England,UKBy Jim Foulerton at Upton Park Gianfranco Zola is adding his Italian style and nous to a West Ham side intent upon bringing European football back to Upton ...See all stories on this topic
West Ham defender Tomkins grateful for family supportTribalfootball.com - Australia"I'm close to my family and they always tell me the same - that it's important to stay focused," Tomkins tells the club's match programme. ...See all stories on this topic
WIN TICKETS TO.. Spurs v West HamMirror.co.uk - London,UKFor a chance to win tickets tospurs v West Ham answer the following question: What is Tottenham's ground called? Now call 0901 553 0319 and follow ...See all stories on this topic
Sunderland's Losing Streak Continues As West Ham Look to EuropeBuzzle - Costa Mesa,CA,USAWest Ham made light of a modest recent scoring record – and the absence of leading marksman Carlton Cole through injury – to further their European ...See all stories on this topic
Tomkins: The future's brightTeamtalk.com - UKWest Ham youngster James Tomkins insists there is plenty more talent to emerge from the club's academy thanks to the work of Tony Carr. ...See all stories on this topic
SkySportsZola sets sights on EuropeSkySports - USABy Jamie Casey Last updated: 4th April 2009 West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola has admitted he has one eye on European qualification following their 2-0 win over ...See all stories on this topic
West Ham United 2 Sunderland 0Sunday Sun - Newcastle upon Tyne,England,UKGoals from homegrown youngsters Junior Stanislas on 43 minutes and James Tomkins seven minutes into the second half gave West Ham a victory which lifted ...See all stories on this topic
Stanislas and Tomkins top of class at West Ham's academyIndependent - London,England,UKBy Jim Foulerton at Upton Park Gianfranco Zola is adding his Italian style and nous to a West Ham side intent upon bringing European football back to Upton ...See all stories on this topic
West Ham defender Tomkins grateful for family supportTribalfootball.com - Australia"I'm close to my family and they always tell me the same - that it's important to stay focused," Tomkins tells the club's match programme. ...See all stories on this topic
WIN TICKETS TO.. Spurs v West HamMirror.co.uk - London,UKFor a chance to win tickets tospurs v West Ham answer the following question: What is Tottenham's ground called? Now call 0901 553 0319 and follow ...See all stories on this topic
Sunderland's Losing Streak Continues As West Ham Look to EuropeBuzzle - Costa Mesa,CA,USAWest Ham made light of a modest recent scoring record – and the absence of leading marksman Carlton Cole through injury – to further their European ...See all stories on this topic
Sunday, 22 March 2009
Real Madrid confirm they will NOT sue West Ham over Tevez
STOP PRESS: Spanish super-club Real Madrid have confirmed tonight that they will NOT be sueing West Ham over the Carlos Tevez affair.
Real president Ramon Calderon said the club's team of high-powered lawyers had scoured all of the papers looking at every possible angle - but they were just unable to come up with anything concrete.
In fact they couldn't even come up with anything wood, cardboard or paper.
Unlike Leeds United chief Ken 'litigate to accumulate' Bates. Or Fulham supremo Mohamed Al Fayed, or Sheffield United player Michael Tonge, or Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock or the bloke down the road from me (he had a couple of quid on West Ham to go down and is now sueing the club and William Hill for loss of earnings).
Still at least we won't have to hear about the whoel 'Carlos Tevez thing' anymore - not now it's been settled eh!
PS - Real Madrid said they might still have a case aainst West Ham concerning Julien Faubert - apparently they can sue under the trade descriptions act because West Ham said he was a professional footballer.
Real president Ramon Calderon said the club's team of high-powered lawyers had scoured all of the papers looking at every possible angle - but they were just unable to come up with anything concrete.
In fact they couldn't even come up with anything wood, cardboard or paper.
Unlike Leeds United chief Ken 'litigate to accumulate' Bates. Or Fulham supremo Mohamed Al Fayed, or Sheffield United player Michael Tonge, or Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock or the bloke down the road from me (he had a couple of quid on West Ham to go down and is now sueing the club and William Hill for loss of earnings).
Still at least we won't have to hear about the whoel 'Carlos Tevez thing' anymore - not now it's been settled eh!
PS - Real Madrid said they might still have a case aainst West Ham concerning Julien Faubert - apparently they can sue under the trade descriptions act because West Ham said he was a professional footballer.
Friday, 20 March 2009
Zola looks for four more wins to make European gravy train
After watching Monday night's abysmal performance against West Brom i'm not confident of getting much at Blackburn.
Rovers are fighting for their lives - but unlike West Brom they are dangerous going forward.
Benni McCarthy and Roque Santa Cruz ( who may not play through injury) are lethal.You have to wonder what Blackburn are doing down there.
West Brom nearly scored against us - hitting the bar when Green was clothes-lined - and they have no-one up front.
Benni McCarthy and Roque Santa Cruz ( who may not play through injury) are lethal.You have to wonder what Blackburn are doing down there.
West Brom nearly scored against us - hitting the bar when Green was clothes-lined - and they have no-one up front.
Zola says four more wins and we will be in Europe.
"The supporters can be optimistic as long as we manage to get all the players back from injury," he told the club's official website http://www.whufc.com/
"Obviously we have had big problems and in the next few weeks we are looking forward to getting a few players back. When we have all of them available again then we really have a good chance because the team is looking well.
"The team has shown me that it is a strong team and also mentally they are strong because we lost a few games. We lost to Manchester United and at Bolton and the FA Cup game at Middlesbrough but we had a very difficult game against Manchester City and on that occasion they performed very, very well. It was a very good indication to me about how strong they are mentally.
"The supporters can be optimistic as long as we manage to get all the players back from injury," he told the club's official website http://www.whufc.com/
"Obviously we have had big problems and in the next few weeks we are looking forward to getting a few players back. When we have all of them available again then we really have a good chance because the team is looking well.
"The team has shown me that it is a strong team and also mentally they are strong because we lost a few games. We lost to Manchester United and at Bolton and the FA Cup game at Middlesbrough but we had a very difficult game against Manchester City and on that occasion they performed very, very well. It was a very good indication to me about how strong they are mentally.
"First of all we need consistency. It is a very, very important thing.
"They need to perform all the time. That is the main thing. We have achieved the first target which was to get to at least 40 points. Now they need to push even more because we want to reach 52 points. I believe that will be the quota we need to achieve if we want to go into Europe, so they need to push themselves even harder.
"At this point of the season we have less players because we have a few injuries and people are starting to get tired so they really need to be demanding of themselves.
"I believe that 52 points will be the target we need that might take us to the Europa League so we are 12 points short. It is achievable. We have to think in this way. We have to have targets and try everything to achieve them."
"For me, it is very much worth qualifying. We haven't been in Europe for a while.
"I played in Europe for many years as a player and I know very much how good it is to play in that kind of competition not only for the silverware you can get but also for the opportunity it gives players to improve. If you play abroad you always improve so I wish that we can achieve that."
So here are our remaining fixtures - i challenge you to pick the four wins.
Saturday, 21 March 2009Barclays Premier League Blackburn v West Ham, 15:00
Saturday, 04 April 2009Barclays Premier League West Ham v Sunderland, 15:00
Saturday, 11 April 2009Barclays Premier League Tottenham v West Ham, 15:00
Saturday, 18 April 2009Barclays Premier League Aston Villa v West Ham, 15:00
Saturday, 25 April 2009Barclays Premier League West Ham v Chelsea, 15:00
Saturday, 02 May 2009Barclays Premier League Stoke v West Ham, 15:00
Saturday, 09 May 2009Barclays Premier League West Ham v Liverpool, 15:00
Saturday, 16 May 2009Barclays Premier League Everton v West Ham, 15:00
Sunday, 24 May 2009Barclays Premier League West Ham v Middlesbrough, 16:00
Monday, 16 March 2009
Tevez: Unsatisfactory ending to unsavoury affair
I know things could have been a lot worse. I know that our Icelandic owner would not be able to sell the club - something he desperately needs to do - if it hadn't been settled. And i know that the money is being paid in stages - BUT - i'm not happy with the ending of the 'Carlos Tevez Affair'.
£10million, £15million, £20 million... whatever. It's the fact that i think given better circumstances West Ham should and could have gone all the way with this - instead they've been forced to pay Sheffield United's loveable chairman Kevin McCabe - who is certain to invest EVERY penny in new players.
The problem with the deal is it leaves a nasty stain on West Ham's character. A stain which i'm not sure should really be there.
The judgement - leaked by Sheffield United and therefore no use in any future cases as a precedent - was a complete load of gibberish written by a man who clarly has little or no knowledge of football.
He actually worked out how many points West Ham would have won if they had not played Tevez!!! How the hell did he do that?
How can you say what would've happended had someone else been playing for the club in those last few weeks - granted it is probably fair to say any replacement would not have had Tevez' skill - but how can you say they would have scored fewer or more goals???? You can't.
You can't change history and in the same way you can't look at history and say how it would've been different if you'd taken someone out of it.
Not with any degree of certainty anyway.
So West Ham should have fought to overturn the ridiculous ruling - but they couldn't - they needed it settled.
Mr McCabe says: "We are happy and satisfied with the settlement with West Ham.
"Throughout the finalisation of the terms for the agreement, the discussions were friendly, co-operative and in the best of spirit with both the Blades and Hammers advisory teams.
"We are two clubs with a fantastic footballing history who now want to move on and focus on the business of playing football - hopefully for us against the Hammers in the Premier League next season."
"Throughout the finalisation of the terms for the agreement, the discussions were friendly, co-operative and in the best of spirit with both the Blades and Hammers advisory teams.
"We are two clubs with a fantastic footballing history who now want to move on and focus on the business of playing football - hopefully for us against the Hammers in the Premier League next season."
Well Mr McCabe - if you take ALL the money and invest it in the team then i'm sure you'll get up no problem - so let's just wait and see what happens eh.....
Sunday, 8 March 2009
West Ham's Europa League/UEFA Cup chances boosted by FA Cup results
West Ham’s chances of a surprise European qualification were given a boost at the weekend even though Gianfranco Zola’s side did not kick a ball in anger.
The weekend’s FA Cup games all went the way Zola would have hoped as he looks to lead his side to a seventh place finish and a place in the re-vamped UEFA Cup, the Europa League.
The Hammers currently occupy seventh place which would be enough for European qualification if the FA Cup is won by a team which has already qualified for Europe through another route.
Of the five teams left in the competiton following this weekend’s matches only Hull City – still to meet Arsenal in a delayed quarter-final – look unlikely to make European qualification through their league position.
The chance of entering the Europa League qualifying rounds is a carrot which the Hammers players are focussed on.
“It is massively in our mind,” said England defender Matthew Upson.
“It is a target of ours.
“We sat down and have talked about it. We are heading towards them and when you set targets you want to achieve them and that is what we want to do at this club.
West Ham’s next outing is a home match on Monday against strugglers West Bromwich Albion – a potential banana skin - but Upson insists he and his team-mates will not lose focus.
“We have a couple of fixtures coming up where we can pick up points,” said Upson.
New signing Savio is also targeting a dream debut season and a return to the continent – this time in a West Ham shirt.
Speaking about his first few months in the Premier League the German said: “It has been everything I expected. It is fantastic to have the opportunity to play in a team like this and to do the things we are doing now.
“It is very good that we are seventh and we have a great opportunity. I am sure we can finish seventh and nothing is impossible.
“We have only to focus on the next match and doing well and at the end of the season we can see if it's enough.”
Seventh should now be enough - all they need to do is hold on to it!
The weekend’s FA Cup games all went the way Zola would have hoped as he looks to lead his side to a seventh place finish and a place in the re-vamped UEFA Cup, the Europa League.
The Hammers currently occupy seventh place which would be enough for European qualification if the FA Cup is won by a team which has already qualified for Europe through another route.
Of the five teams left in the competiton following this weekend’s matches only Hull City – still to meet Arsenal in a delayed quarter-final – look unlikely to make European qualification through their league position.
The chance of entering the Europa League qualifying rounds is a carrot which the Hammers players are focussed on.
“It is massively in our mind,” said England defender Matthew Upson.
“It is a target of ours.
“We sat down and have talked about it. We are heading towards them and when you set targets you want to achieve them and that is what we want to do at this club.
West Ham’s next outing is a home match on Monday against strugglers West Bromwich Albion – a potential banana skin - but Upson insists he and his team-mates will not lose focus.
“We have a couple of fixtures coming up where we can pick up points,” said Upson.
New signing Savio is also targeting a dream debut season and a return to the continent – this time in a West Ham shirt.
Speaking about his first few months in the Premier League the German said: “It has been everything I expected. It is fantastic to have the opportunity to play in a team like this and to do the things we are doing now.
“It is very good that we are seventh and we have a great opportunity. I am sure we can finish seventh and nothing is impossible.
“We have only to focus on the next match and doing well and at the end of the season we can see if it's enough.”
Seventh should now be enough - all they need to do is hold on to it!
Monday, 2 March 2009
What happens to the UEFA Cup spot that Spurs lost yesterday?
I am sure someone - and i meet a lot of people who claim to know what they are talking about - told me that if Spurs lost yesterday then the UEFA Cup places would go to fith, sixth - AND SEVENTH in the Premier League.
But, this morning i can't find any evidence of such a thing....
I will keep looking and may even place a call to the club if i can't find anything elsewhere but you'd have to say seventh is loking like a real possibility now.
West Ham's rivals for seventh place are Wigan, Fulham, Bolton and Sundays vanquished foes - Manchester 'ambitious' City.
Sunday's win puts West Ham four points clear of City - with a nice run of games coming up.
DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT HAPPENS TO UEFA PLACES NOW? please use comments button or email me iainoneil@hotmail.com
Cheers
But, this morning i can't find any evidence of such a thing....
I will keep looking and may even place a call to the club if i can't find anything elsewhere but you'd have to say seventh is loking like a real possibility now.
West Ham's rivals for seventh place are Wigan, Fulham, Bolton and Sundays vanquished foes - Manchester 'ambitious' City.
Sunday's win puts West Ham four points clear of City - with a nice run of games coming up.
DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT HAPPENS TO UEFA PLACES NOW? please use comments button or email me iainoneil@hotmail.com
Cheers
Tuesday, 24 February 2009
Big game for Zola's season
The FA Cup replay at Middlesbrough is a huge game for West Ham's season.
You'd have to say that after all the financial turmoil and talk of fire sales - and considering it is his first 'proper' manager's job - a mid-table finish would go down as a success to all but the most delusional Hammers fan.
BUT a nice run in the cup would make a huge difference.
A win at Middlesbrough followed by a tough trip to an Arteta-less Everton and vefore you know it you're in the Semi-Finals - then ANYTHING's possible.
I think if West Ham can get past 'Boro then they are in good shape.
They would prefer to be away to Everton - it suits the way they play - and Everton without Arteta are not the same side.
Fingers crossed for a result at the Riverside.
You'd have to say that after all the financial turmoil and talk of fire sales - and considering it is his first 'proper' manager's job - a mid-table finish would go down as a success to all but the most delusional Hammers fan.
BUT a nice run in the cup would make a huge difference.
A win at Middlesbrough followed by a tough trip to an Arteta-less Everton and vefore you know it you're in the Semi-Finals - then ANYTHING's possible.
I think if West Ham can get past 'Boro then they are in good shape.
They would prefer to be away to Everton - it suits the way they play - and Everton without Arteta are not the same side.
Fingers crossed for a result at the Riverside.
Wednesday, 18 February 2009
Luis Boo-a-Morte
I can't remember ever booing a West Ham player.
I don't know if that is something to be proud of or whether it marks me out as 'too scared' to show my real feelings.
I've booed players who've left the club and I taught my three-year-old son to boo the opposition when their team is being announced.
But for me there is something self-defeating in booing one of your own - surely it just makes them play worse and in turn makes it more likely the team will not win.
So, Luis Boa Morte.
My dad says he would rather see West Ham play with ten men than bring the Portuguese on.
At times he is comic - but when the game is tight - or when you are losing like on Saturday against Middlesbrough - it's no laughing matter.
I sit there willing him to do well. Each time he misses an easy chance or falls over the ball or makes a bad decision - i feel pain.
But i have to say that given the amount of time he's been there and the amount of money we paid - he is a huge disappointment.
You can see he is trying - giving it everything - but i don't think it's good enough.
Surely it would be better to play someone else - or like my dad says - no-one else.
Which makes Gianfranco Zola's comments after the game even stranger.
"He's one of the players that every manager would like to have," said Zola.
"I don't think he deserves it that the supporters are picking on him, it makes it more difficult for him to perform.
"For me, honestly, he has been fantastic." Okay.
I'm not going to argue with Zola.
it does make me wonder if Boa Morte is great in training and crumbles under the pressure of Upton Park - you could argue he has been marginally better away from home.
But i would say to Zola, don't worry too much about the boo-boys. West Ham fans love to have a love-hate figure.
And even thought the team are doing well at the moment - it's not the West Ham Way to be completely happy.
What would we do if there was nothing to moan about on a Saturday, eh?
Sunday, 15 February 2009
30 games in 3 years - will Dean Ashton ever play again?
Dean Ashton - West Ham's best centre-forward for years and a man with the ability to play at the very highest level - says he will not be adding to his FIVE appearances for the club this season.
Ashton made 24 appearances for the Hammers in the 2007/08 season and missed the entire 2006/07 season through injury.
Meaning the England international has played less than 30 games for the club in three years.
Ashton says following his recent ankle surgery he is going to focus on getting ready for pre-season.
You've got to feel for a guy whose body is clearly letting him down.
Ashton said: "I think realistically pre-season is my target.
"I've just had an operation and the surgeons are pleased but obviously it's a setback I didn't really want.
I need to get over this operation, get myself properly fit and I don't want to rush back before I'm ready.
"It happened at a time when I just thought I was back, especially after scoring twice in the first game - but then I came down with another complaint with my ankle.
"If you ask players who have had ankle injuries, they'll know what I'm talking about when I say it's a difficult injury to get back from."
I need to get over this operation, get myself properly fit and I don't want to rush back before I'm ready.
"It happened at a time when I just thought I was back, especially after scoring twice in the first game - but then I came down with another complaint with my ankle.
"If you ask players who have had ankle injuries, they'll know what I'm talking about when I say it's a difficult injury to get back from."
That's key - it is a difficult injury to get back from and there is clearly something wrong. I hope i'm wrong here but i just can't imagine the day when a fully-fit Ashton is tearing around Upton Park again slamming in pile-drivers from outside the box.
Anyone who saw his 24 appearances last season knows he was playing at half pace at best.
He looked slow, almost uninterested, worried about getting injured, and at times he looked sad.
Despite all that he still scored 11 times in 24 games - even at half pace - showing how devastating he could be if fully fit.
He also scored twice on his return to the team this term.
He is a class act - i just hope we can see him flying, firing and happy again.
Monday, 9 February 2009
Hands of Zola Chelsea
Chelsea have today sacked manager Luiz Felipe Scolari.
Not unbelievable but slightly odd timing.
My worry now is that they will come for Zola and Steve Clarke - i would've been more scared if they had sacked Scolari at the end of the season rather than now but i just think it would be good to hear Zola and Clarke rule themselves out NOW.
Not unbelievable but slightly odd timing.
My worry now is that they will come for Zola and Steve Clarke - i would've been more scared if they had sacked Scolari at the end of the season rather than now but i just think it would be good to hear Zola and Clarke rule themselves out NOW.
Carlton Cole for England - you heard it here first...ish.
I don't know who first suggested it.
It's one of those things that everyone is now claiming, but if you scroll down the page you will see that i said Carlton Cole was a serious contender for an England cap as far bnack as January the 11th.
I also said that you might end up in trouble for suggesting something so ridiculous but it just goes to show you how strange football is.Carlton 'the goal' Cole now looks set for AN ENGLAND START on Wednesday in Spain.
An injury to Emile Heskey might force Capello's hand.
And to be honest it would be nothing more than Cole deserves.Here is a player who shows what can be achieved with effort.
New focus and extra training have really paid off for Cole who gave Nemanja Vidic a real tough time yesterday - so much so that Vidic resorted to hauling him down at one point having been beaten for strength, skill and pace.
Good luck Carlton, nice to see West Ham with three players in the squad. Anyone seen a Spurs player in there??
It's one of those things that everyone is now claiming, but if you scroll down the page you will see that i said Carlton Cole was a serious contender for an England cap as far bnack as January the 11th.
I also said that you might end up in trouble for suggesting something so ridiculous but it just goes to show you how strange football is.Carlton 'the goal' Cole now looks set for AN ENGLAND START on Wednesday in Spain.
An injury to Emile Heskey might force Capello's hand.
And to be honest it would be nothing more than Cole deserves.Here is a player who shows what can be achieved with effort.
New focus and extra training have really paid off for Cole who gave Nemanja Vidic a real tough time yesterday - so much so that Vidic resorted to hauling him down at one point having been beaten for strength, skill and pace.
Good luck Carlton, nice to see West Ham with three players in the squad. Anyone seen a Spurs player in there??
Monday, 2 February 2009
Faubert to Real Madrid...no, really.
Julien Faubert, French international, has to go down as one of the most disappointing signings West Ham have ever made.
He must rank alongside Joey Beauchamp who signed for £1million and then gave up before playing a game because of the traffic!
This week Faubert joined Real Madrid - yep - that Real Madrid.
When Faubert joined West Ham France coach Raymond Domenech 'slammed' the player for joining a club which was so far beneath his obvious talents and ability.
Here's Domenech at the time: "I can't understand Faubert's decision. When my players phone me to tell me they are moving clubs, I tell them it is OK if they are joining one of the top four in England, Germany, Italy or Spain."
"But it is unspeakably stupid to join a club outside of those few, apart from the financial point of view."
"It is a great pity when you are on the brink of the French national team. I struggle to understand why he has done it."
This only increased my excitement at the possibility of seeing this fantastic new star turning out for the Hammers.
As was the West Ham way at the time Faubert - by all means impressive in his debut in a pre-season tour of the Czech Republic - ruptured an achilies - ruling him out of a first team start for months.
When he finally did make his debut he loooked fast, could cross a ball from very, very deep with a wicked swerve but obviously didn't go past people cos he was nursing his achilies, right?
Wrong, he didn't go past people because... well, he just didn't.
Instead he crossed the ball from somewhere on the right of midfield everytime he got it. Or he gave it away.
In the end he played at right-back - from where he still crossed the ball - but through no fault of his own he was not comfortable defending.
So, he coudln't defend, or attack, in fact his own goal at Arsenal aside i don't think he did much at all for West Ham.
Over the last few weeks he has looked like a man so short on confidence that i actually saw him pointing to a team mate when Lucas Neill advanced out of defence and shaped to pass the ball to Faubert.
He didn't want it.
His confidence was so low he - quite rightly in my view - thought Real's interest was a joke - he's not the only one.
I hope it works out for him at Real Madrid but somehow i just can't see it.
Still at least Domenech will be happy eh.
Sunday, 1 February 2009
I've never seen West ham work so hard
West Ham's 0-0 draw at the Emirates on Saturday was their third clean sheet in a row - following Hartlepool and Hull.
The effort which went in to Saturday's stalemate at Arsenal was incredible.
West Ham's players closed down Arsenal as if their lives depended on it and they did it with structure.
Steve Clarke and Gianfranco Zola have clearly been working on the defensive side of the game and the players have bought into it.
They hunted in packs, going fromplayer to player as Arsenal passed the ball looking for a way in.
I don't know what Arsene Wenger's training is like - and i have a lot of time for the way Arsenal play - but you could see some of their players were almost offended at the amount of effort the Hammers put in.
Like it wasn't fair somehow to try so hard to stop your opponents.
Awesome stuff and probably just as important in West Ham's resurgence as their return to slick passing football.
it really is a great time to be a West Ham fan at the moment - after years of what can only be described as a kind if shame - i'm rpoiud to be a Hammer again and i thank Zola, Clarke and the players for that.
Man U up next but in a way the pressure is off. Let's enjoy it and try and give them a game.
The effort which went in to Saturday's stalemate at Arsenal was incredible.
West Ham's players closed down Arsenal as if their lives depended on it and they did it with structure.
Steve Clarke and Gianfranco Zola have clearly been working on the defensive side of the game and the players have bought into it.
They hunted in packs, going fromplayer to player as Arsenal passed the ball looking for a way in.
I don't know what Arsene Wenger's training is like - and i have a lot of time for the way Arsenal play - but you could see some of their players were almost offended at the amount of effort the Hammers put in.
Like it wasn't fair somehow to try so hard to stop your opponents.
Awesome stuff and probably just as important in West Ham's resurgence as their return to slick passing football.
it really is a great time to be a West Ham fan at the moment - after years of what can only be described as a kind if shame - i'm rpoiud to be a Hammer again and i thank Zola, Clarke and the players for that.
Man U up next but in a way the pressure is off. Let's enjoy it and try and give them a game.
Thursday, 29 January 2009
One Hull of a night for Zola's Hammers
I was at Upton Park the last time West Ham entertained Hull - West Ham running out 7-1 winners on that occasion.
I don't remember much about the game - but in those days i stood on the South Bank so we were probably doing the conga for most of the second half or singing 'Let's all form a circle' - a 'safe-for'work' version of a popular football chant of the time.
I was also at Upton Park last night and although the score was a much less resounding 2-0 i doubt the game was any less one-sided.
West Ham were awesome.
I don't say that lightly either.
They were far from perfect but they oozed passion and the passed like a West ham team of old.
My Dad said to me last night that he felt like the last two or three years the team has 'not really been like West Ham' and i know what he means.
I know we've got Arsenal and Man U up next so it's going to be a tough couple of weeks but let's just bask in the glory of some of last night's football.
Going forward, chasing back, tackling, neat passing - they gave everything.
Well done Zola and well done the boys.
Carlton Cole held the ball up like Drogba and worked three times as hard as the Chelsea man ever will.
Parker was immense.
And how about Savio - i make that £2million a step-over. Not a bad start!
I don't remember much about the game - but in those days i stood on the South Bank so we were probably doing the conga for most of the second half or singing 'Let's all form a circle' - a 'safe-for'work' version of a popular football chant of the time.
I was also at Upton Park last night and although the score was a much less resounding 2-0 i doubt the game was any less one-sided.
West Ham were awesome.
I don't say that lightly either.
They were far from perfect but they oozed passion and the passed like a West ham team of old.
My Dad said to me last night that he felt like the last two or three years the team has 'not really been like West Ham' and i know what he means.
I know we've got Arsenal and Man U up next so it's going to be a tough couple of weeks but let's just bask in the glory of some of last night's football.
Going forward, chasing back, tackling, neat passing - they gave everything.
Well done Zola and well done the boys.
Carlton Cole held the ball up like Drogba and worked three times as hard as the Chelsea man ever will.
Parker was immense.
And how about Savio - i make that £2million a step-over. Not a bad start!
Wednesday, 28 January 2009
Hats off to West Ham's owner and CEO Scott Duxbury
You have to take your hat off to West Ham owner Bjorgulfor Gudmundsson and CEO Scott Duxbury.
At the end of last year the national newspapers worked themselves into a frenzy describing how 'Crisis Club' West Ham were likely to offload everyone but the tea lady in a bid to stave off administration and the resulting nine-point penalty.
The way it was reported it was clear that West Ham's money men wold have their hands full just trying to keep the club alive in some form or other.
As we stand, ahead of tonight's clash with Hull City, the West Ham Fire Sale - everything must go - has rsulted in the departue of Mullins, Bowyer, Etherington - possibly Davenport - and a failed attempt to shift Boa Morte to tonight's opponents.
And of course the move engineered by the Welsh Chav to Disneyland.
Not exactly ripping the heart from the club.
Zola has kept hold of Upson, Green, Parker, Ashton, Behrami, Noble, Collins - in fact all of the players he would've wanted to keep - apart from the tattooed one.
In return the club has brought in somewhere between £16 and £20 million pounds.
Money which any good Fleet Street hack will tell you is needed to avoid Mr Gudmundsson being visited by the bailiffs.
So.... how do they explain yesterday's capture of £10million striker Savio Nsereko??
Whatever you think abuot the pedigree of a 19-year-old from Serie B it is clear that the club's money men have been good to their word and allowed Zola to re-invest in the team.
Hats off to them - i hope Nsereko goes on to be as good as Zola clearly thinks he can be.
We watch with interest.
Hats off to the club.
At the end of last year the national newspapers worked themselves into a frenzy describing how 'Crisis Club' West Ham were likely to offload everyone but the tea lady in a bid to stave off administration and the resulting nine-point penalty.
The way it was reported it was clear that West Ham's money men wold have their hands full just trying to keep the club alive in some form or other.
As we stand, ahead of tonight's clash with Hull City, the West Ham Fire Sale - everything must go - has rsulted in the departue of Mullins, Bowyer, Etherington - possibly Davenport - and a failed attempt to shift Boa Morte to tonight's opponents.
And of course the move engineered by the Welsh Chav to Disneyland.
Not exactly ripping the heart from the club.
Zola has kept hold of Upson, Green, Parker, Ashton, Behrami, Noble, Collins - in fact all of the players he would've wanted to keep - apart from the tattooed one.
In return the club has brought in somewhere between £16 and £20 million pounds.
Money which any good Fleet Street hack will tell you is needed to avoid Mr Gudmundsson being visited by the bailiffs.
So.... how do they explain yesterday's capture of £10million striker Savio Nsereko??
Whatever you think abuot the pedigree of a 19-year-old from Serie B it is clear that the club's money men have been good to their word and allowed Zola to re-invest in the team.
Hats off to them - i hope Nsereko goes on to be as good as Zola clearly thinks he can be.
We watch with interest.
Hats off to the club.
Tuesday, 27 January 2009
West Ham are the Best Team in the World - it's unofficial!
I liked this when I came across it on the internet yesterday.
For years now the 'Unnoffical World Championship' has been tracking who beat the 2006 World Cup winners Italy and awarding them the title of 'Best Team in the World' and now it seems something similar has been done with club sides.
And believe it or not, West Ham ARE the Best Team in the World...
According to Barney Corkhill's Unnoficial World Championship the Hammers succesfully defended their title again at the weekend - and even better news - avoided allowing Hartlepool to become the 'lowest ranked team to hold the title' an honour that currently belongs to Tottenham!!!
PS - i've switched the comment function on in this blog now - previously it only allowed 'registered Google account holders' to comment - now it's open to everyone - even Spurs fans.
Please feel free to comment on anything past or present.
Cheers.
For years now the 'Unnoffical World Championship' has been tracking who beat the 2006 World Cup winners Italy and awarding them the title of 'Best Team in the World' and now it seems something similar has been done with club sides.
And believe it or not, West Ham ARE the Best Team in the World...
According to Barney Corkhill's Unnoficial World Championship the Hammers succesfully defended their title again at the weekend - and even better news - avoided allowing Hartlepool to become the 'lowest ranked team to hold the title' an honour that currently belongs to Tottenham!!!
PS - i've switched the comment function on in this blog now - previously it only allowed 'registered Google account holders' to comment - now it's open to everyone - even Spurs fans.
Please feel free to comment on anything past or present.
Cheers.
Sunday, 25 January 2009
Agent Redknapp in danger of becoming Hammers hero again
Harry Redknapp is fast becoming a hero in my eyes again.
I used to love Redknapp, i still had a lot of affection for old saggy face even after he went to Spurs.
He went down in my estimations though when he sat in the post match press conference after his Spurs side had won 2-0 at Upton Park and said 'no-one is more West Ham than me'.
Jusy days later he tried - and it seems succeeeded - to unsettle West Ham's star striker Craig Bellamy.
Redknapp wanted to sign Bellamy for Spurs and rather than approach the club behind the scenes he decided to tell the papers.
"I don't know who told the papers i was interested in Bellamy," said Redknapp, clearly unaware that he was talking to a TV camera at the time - just in case Bellamy had missed the paper that day.
Anyway, like the Caffreys, i'm not bitter - honestly...
And I'm starting to wonder about Agent Redknapp. Remember, this is the man who suffered death threats when he left Portsmouth to join rivals Southampton.
Then returned to Portsmouth a hero after taking Southampton down to the Championship.
Could this be the most cunning West Ham plan ever? Redknapp, if you take Spurs down I will defend your right to call yourself 'The Most West Ham Man on the Planet' like you did in the press conference.
I used to love Redknapp, i still had a lot of affection for old saggy face even after he went to Spurs.
He went down in my estimations though when he sat in the post match press conference after his Spurs side had won 2-0 at Upton Park and said 'no-one is more West Ham than me'.
Jusy days later he tried - and it seems succeeeded - to unsettle West Ham's star striker Craig Bellamy.
Redknapp wanted to sign Bellamy for Spurs and rather than approach the club behind the scenes he decided to tell the papers.
"I don't know who told the papers i was interested in Bellamy," said Redknapp, clearly unaware that he was talking to a TV camera at the time - just in case Bellamy had missed the paper that day.
Anyway, like the Caffreys, i'm not bitter - honestly...
And I'm starting to wonder about Agent Redknapp. Remember, this is the man who suffered death threats when he left Portsmouth to join rivals Southampton.
Then returned to Portsmouth a hero after taking Southampton down to the Championship.
Could this be the most cunning West Ham plan ever? Redknapp, if you take Spurs down I will defend your right to call yourself 'The Most West Ham Man on the Planet' like you did in the press conference.
Tuesday, 20 January 2009
Carlton Cole says he is still only half the player he can be
Carlton Cole remarks that all of his goals have come in the second half of games and he might start drinking coffee before kick-off to give himself a 'kick up the backside'.
Goal hero Carlton was talking to Dave Evans
FIVE IN FIVE IS NOT BAD GOING IS IT?
Yeah, I’m really happy with the way it is going, and I just want it to carry on now – I want six in six!
BEFORE CHRISTMAS YOU WERE GOING THROUGH A GOAL DROUGHT, WHAT HAS BEEN THE DIFFERENCE DO YOU THINK?
I’ve never scored goals consistently really in my career. Now it is coming with consistency, I am asking a lot more of myself and trying to get in more goalscoring positions and it is just happening for me right now, and I’m just happy that I’ve got the opportunity to be playing in the first team and doing well.
FRANCO SAID THAT HE WAS GOING TO WORK ONE TO ONE WITH YOU, HAS HE DONE THAT? AND WHAT ELSE HAVE YOU BEEN DOING DIFFERENTLY IN TRAINING?
The manager certainly has been working one on one with me and I also have lots of processes that I go through before the games, that is helping me and I’ve just got to keep on doing them.
I can’t complain with what I’m doing, so I just have to keep persisting.
JACK COLLISON TOLD US YOU WERE DISAPPOINTED WITH YOUR FIRST HALF DISPLAY, IT CERTAINLY PICKED UP IN THE SECOND HALF
I stated that I was disappointed with my first half. I think I piss away all my first halves, all my goals have come in the second half in this run, if you look at my statistics all my goals have come in the second half, so obviously I’m not doing well in the first half and waking up in the second.
I don’t know if I need to start drinking coffee before kick off, but I seem to get a kick up the backside at half time, saying that I’m better than what I’m showing and I go out there in the second half and prove what I can do.
YOU’RE SHOOTING MORE OFTEN, IS THAT SOMETHING THE MANAGER HAS TOLD YOU TO DO?
Yes. Everyone was telling me to shoot more because I’m a striker and that is what I’m supposed to do. I noticed what I was doing that was wrong and I’ve been trying to correct it, in every game and every training session.
YOU HAD A DIFFERENT PARTNER UP FRONT, WAS THAT DIFFICULT TO ADJUST TO?
It wasn’t difficult. Di Michele is a very intelligent player, a great player, good on the ball, scored one goal, laid one on for me which was an important goal, so he has a goal and an assist to his name, so he is probably happy with his day’s work.
When you are playing with intelligent players you just have to try and adapt.
Yeah, I’m really happy with the way it is going, and I just want it to carry on now – I want six in six!
BEFORE CHRISTMAS YOU WERE GOING THROUGH A GOAL DROUGHT, WHAT HAS BEEN THE DIFFERENCE DO YOU THINK?
I’ve never scored goals consistently really in my career. Now it is coming with consistency, I am asking a lot more of myself and trying to get in more goalscoring positions and it is just happening for me right now, and I’m just happy that I’ve got the opportunity to be playing in the first team and doing well.
FRANCO SAID THAT HE WAS GOING TO WORK ONE TO ONE WITH YOU, HAS HE DONE THAT? AND WHAT ELSE HAVE YOU BEEN DOING DIFFERENTLY IN TRAINING?
The manager certainly has been working one on one with me and I also have lots of processes that I go through before the games, that is helping me and I’ve just got to keep on doing them.
I can’t complain with what I’m doing, so I just have to keep persisting.
JACK COLLISON TOLD US YOU WERE DISAPPOINTED WITH YOUR FIRST HALF DISPLAY, IT CERTAINLY PICKED UP IN THE SECOND HALF
I stated that I was disappointed with my first half. I think I piss away all my first halves, all my goals have come in the second half in this run, if you look at my statistics all my goals have come in the second half, so obviously I’m not doing well in the first half and waking up in the second.
I don’t know if I need to start drinking coffee before kick off, but I seem to get a kick up the backside at half time, saying that I’m better than what I’m showing and I go out there in the second half and prove what I can do.
YOU’RE SHOOTING MORE OFTEN, IS THAT SOMETHING THE MANAGER HAS TOLD YOU TO DO?
Yes. Everyone was telling me to shoot more because I’m a striker and that is what I’m supposed to do. I noticed what I was doing that was wrong and I’ve been trying to correct it, in every game and every training session.
YOU HAD A DIFFERENT PARTNER UP FRONT, WAS THAT DIFFICULT TO ADJUST TO?
It wasn’t difficult. Di Michele is a very intelligent player, a great player, good on the ball, scored one goal, laid one on for me which was an important goal, so he has a goal and an assist to his name, so he is probably happy with his day’s work.
When you are playing with intelligent players you just have to try and adapt.
Hammer Noble backs friend Bellamy for success at City
Mark Noble speaking to Dave Evans
CAN YOU UNDERSTAND SOMEONE WANTING TO LEAVE A CLUB THAT YOU LOVE?
Yes, I can understand it, as a friend and a colleague of his, I think wherever he does go he will be a great asset to them, because as much as is written and said about him, he is probably one of the best professionals I’ve played with.
He is so fiery, he wants to win every game and I can’t see what’s wrong with that.
He is great for the young lads, good for the team. He says what he thinks and I don’t think that’s a bad thing, there have been some players over time who have done that.
But he gets the best out of people and obviously we are going to miss him.
WERE YOU SURPRISED
I don’t know really. Obviously there was so much written about it, so it came almost like a normal occurrence really. We see it every day in the papers.
He’s my friend, he’s a great player and as I say he will be a great asset to whoever he is playing with.
CAN YOU UNDERSTAND SOMEONE WANTING TO LEAVE A CLUB THAT YOU LOVE?
Yes, I can understand it, as a friend and a colleague of his, I think wherever he does go he will be a great asset to them, because as much as is written and said about him, he is probably one of the best professionals I’ve played with.
He is so fiery, he wants to win every game and I can’t see what’s wrong with that.
He is great for the young lads, good for the team. He says what he thinks and I don’t think that’s a bad thing, there have been some players over time who have done that.
But he gets the best out of people and obviously we are going to miss him.
WERE YOU SURPRISED
I don’t know really. Obviously there was so much written about it, so it came almost like a normal occurrence really. We see it every day in the papers.
He’s my friend, he’s a great player and as I say he will be a great asset to whoever he is playing with.
Sunday, 18 January 2009
Zola will spend any Bellamy cash on a striker
Gianfranco Zola has been assured by West Ham’s board that he will be able to spend the money raised by any player sale during this transfer window.
The Hammers manager said he did not want to lose any of his squad but was determined he would strengthen any weaknesses which were forced upon him.
The Italian looked in need of a rest after the 3-1 win over Fulham and said the whirlwind events of the last week had made preparation for the game very difficult.
He said : “There has been so much talk about this club all year but this week in particular I’ve only had one day to think about this game.
“But I am so proud of my players, they decided it was going to be our day and they made it happen.”
Zola said he would celebrate the victory - courtesy of goals from David Di Michele, Mark Noble and Carlton Cole - with a nice glass of wine adding that he had been through “some very difficult moments” in the past week.
Zola had special praise Cole saying: “Remember what I said about Carlton Cole at the beginning and I wasn't a fool when I said that."I knew the potential of the player because I can recognise a player. I’m proud to say the difference between us and them was definitely Carlton Cole. “He made it happen. In the second half he changed the game around. Although I have to say he was supported by ten other fantastic players because the whole team looked very, very comfortable on the pitch. “They are playing as a team. Within the team there are always one or two individuals who change the game and it was Carlton Cole.
“I'm pleased. I'm pleased for him because in every training session we are working out new ways to improve him and his attitude towards our exercises is excellent and it's making a difference right now.”
The win over Roy Hodgson’s Fulham - who were level at 1-1 following a wonder strike from former Hammer Paul Konchesky - saw the Hammers extend their unbeaten run to five matches in all competitions and rise to eighth in the table.
The players had Monday off and went back to training yesterday - as they prepare for Saturday’s testing FA Cup fourth round trip to Hartlepool.
After that they face Hull City at Upton Park next Wednesday - another league win and Zola may be tempted to crack open a vintage.
The Hammers manager said he did not want to lose any of his squad but was determined he would strengthen any weaknesses which were forced upon him.
The Italian looked in need of a rest after the 3-1 win over Fulham and said the whirlwind events of the last week had made preparation for the game very difficult.
He said : “There has been so much talk about this club all year but this week in particular I’ve only had one day to think about this game.
“But I am so proud of my players, they decided it was going to be our day and they made it happen.”
Zola said he would celebrate the victory - courtesy of goals from David Di Michele, Mark Noble and Carlton Cole - with a nice glass of wine adding that he had been through “some very difficult moments” in the past week.
Zola had special praise Cole saying: “Remember what I said about Carlton Cole at the beginning and I wasn't a fool when I said that."I knew the potential of the player because I can recognise a player. I’m proud to say the difference between us and them was definitely Carlton Cole. “He made it happen. In the second half he changed the game around. Although I have to say he was supported by ten other fantastic players because the whole team looked very, very comfortable on the pitch. “They are playing as a team. Within the team there are always one or two individuals who change the game and it was Carlton Cole.
“I'm pleased. I'm pleased for him because in every training session we are working out new ways to improve him and his attitude towards our exercises is excellent and it's making a difference right now.”
The win over Roy Hodgson’s Fulham - who were level at 1-1 following a wonder strike from former Hammer Paul Konchesky - saw the Hammers extend their unbeaten run to five matches in all competitions and rise to eighth in the table.
The players had Monday off and went back to training yesterday - as they prepare for Saturday’s testing FA Cup fourth round trip to Hartlepool.
After that they face Hull City at Upton Park next Wednesday - another league win and Zola may be tempted to crack open a vintage.
Saturday, 17 January 2009
Bellamy and Redknapp deserve each other
Craig Bellamy has reportedly 'gone on strike' and said he will not pull on his boots again until he is allowed to join Tottenham.
Awesome.
When West Ham signed him, everyone said he was a .... but West Ham and West Ham fans took him in.
The club paid his astronomical wages while he went all round the world getting treatment on a mystery stomach injury.
And only in the last six weeks has he looked anywhere near worth the price (£7.5million) that the club paid for him.
As soon as that happens - in steps Mr Integrity (Harry Redknapp) - who tells the papers - "I don't know who told the papers we were interested in Bellamy, it wasn't me!"
....!
To be honest i will be really gutted to see Bellamy leave - but he has to go now.
I cannot understand the draw of Tottenham at the moment.
Granted they are not going to get relegated but they are also probably not going to finish in the top eight.
West Ham offered Bellamy more money - so it can't be that - and all the players like playing for Zola and Clarke.
Gutted.
The only thing that eases the pain is the knowledge that Bellamy and Redknapp will both leabve Spurs under a cloud - they are serial offenders.
Ask Pompey, Saints and West Ham fans what they think of saggy face and ask Liverpool, Blackburn and Newcastle fans what they think of the tattooed Welsh chav.
....s!
Awesome.
When West Ham signed him, everyone said he was a .... but West Ham and West Ham fans took him in.
The club paid his astronomical wages while he went all round the world getting treatment on a mystery stomach injury.
And only in the last six weeks has he looked anywhere near worth the price (£7.5million) that the club paid for him.
As soon as that happens - in steps Mr Integrity (Harry Redknapp) - who tells the papers - "I don't know who told the papers we were interested in Bellamy, it wasn't me!"
....!
To be honest i will be really gutted to see Bellamy leave - but he has to go now.
I cannot understand the draw of Tottenham at the moment.
Granted they are not going to get relegated but they are also probably not going to finish in the top eight.
West Ham offered Bellamy more money - so it can't be that - and all the players like playing for Zola and Clarke.
Gutted.
The only thing that eases the pain is the knowledge that Bellamy and Redknapp will both leabve Spurs under a cloud - they are serial offenders.
Ask Pompey, Saints and West Ham fans what they think of saggy face and ask Liverpool, Blackburn and Newcastle fans what they think of the tattooed Welsh chav.
....s!
Sunday, 11 January 2009
Carlton Cole for England?
A few weeks ago you would've been carted off screaming and kicking for uttering the words "Capello could do worse than look at Carlton Cole".
You would probably still find yourself the subject of much derision if you started a conversation in the pub with the same line now - even after his fourth goal in four games.
However, those who watch West Ham regularly will say that the only thing missing in Cole's armoury is the ability to put the ball in the net - granted - quite a big drawback for a centre-forward.
He holds it up better than almost anyone in the league. He is physically imposing, fairly fast and has a decent football brain.
The only problem was that if he was in the area with the ball at his feet and the goal gaping - you still wouldn't bet your mortgage on him scoring... until now!
The messages from Chadwell Heath have always been that Cole is awesome in training.
Former Chelsea manager - and Capello's friend - Claudio Ranieri said Cole was the best young player he had ever worked with.
'Cole for England' anyone?
Wednesday, 7 January 2009
West Ham fire sale starts...with Etherington
Okay, i'm a big fan of Matthew Etherington. I am always defending him when Spurs fans say how rubbish he is. I think his style of play - direct and fast - is good to watch and with 10% more on his final ball i reckon he could've played international football.
Please, stop laughing, i'm serious.
I think he added a new exciting dimesnion to West Ham - especially under Curbishley when structure was so rigid.
However, the national press must feel a little let down - perhaps even ashamed (is it possible for a national newspaper sports journalist to feel the emotion of shame?) after weeks - nay months - of predicting the demise of West Ham and the 'fire-sale' to end all fire sales - including Woolworths - as we approach the middle of January West Ham appear to be on the verge of selling...........*drum roll please*.........Matthew Etherington to Stoke for £3.5m.
How will the club survive i hear you ask? I don't know the answer to that but watch this space.
Whilst i'm on the subject could i also say 'Take a bow son' to Guardian 'sports' reporter Tom Lutz who reported the INCREDIBLE news that West Ham would consider selling any of their players - consider it i tells you.
Tom my good man - could you point me in the direction of a club anywhere in the world who would not consider selling a player, any player, if a reasonable offer came in? Astonishing story.
'if someone offers us money for our players we will think about it' - astonishing. Good work.
Please, stop laughing, i'm serious.
I think he added a new exciting dimesnion to West Ham - especially under Curbishley when structure was so rigid.
However, the national press must feel a little let down - perhaps even ashamed (is it possible for a national newspaper sports journalist to feel the emotion of shame?) after weeks - nay months - of predicting the demise of West Ham and the 'fire-sale' to end all fire sales - including Woolworths - as we approach the middle of January West Ham appear to be on the verge of selling...........*drum roll please*.........Matthew Etherington to Stoke for £3.5m.
How will the club survive i hear you ask? I don't know the answer to that but watch this space.
Whilst i'm on the subject could i also say 'Take a bow son' to Guardian 'sports' reporter Tom Lutz who reported the INCREDIBLE news that West Ham would consider selling any of their players - consider it i tells you.
Tom my good man - could you point me in the direction of a club anywhere in the world who would not consider selling a player, any player, if a reasonable offer came in? Astonishing story.
'if someone offers us money for our players we will think about it' - astonishing. Good work.
Hammers' Clarke fields questions on 'fire-sale'
West Ham eased into the fourth-round of the FA Cup following a 3-0 win over Barnsley at the weekend but even that performance was not enough to stem the fire-sale rumours.
Manager Gianfranco Zola was conspicuous by his absence from the post-match press conference – choosing instead to shoot to Sardinia with a festive message for his family rather than stick around to field calls from Premier League vultures circling his players.
Zola’s absence left assistant manager Steve Clarke to trot out the ‘we are just concentrating on the football’ line.
And he is quite right to do so.
West Ham were convincing in the way they dispatched the Championship opposition who enjoyed a run to the Semi-Finals last year - so the players at least are clearly concentrating on the football.
Matthew Upson’s absence was put down to ‘the flu’ rather than any imminent transfer and one ‘new’ face made a welcome appearance – Kieron Dyer finally getting on the pitch after more than a year out.
Clarke was impressed with the England international’s performance but recognised he has a long way to go to full fitness.
He said: “It was good to get Kieron back. He’s obviously had a terrible time with injuries.
“We all feel for him and he’s been working ever so hard just to get on the pitch again.
“Today was good for him. I thought he showed some good touches.
“He also showed that he is nowhere near full match fitness as he looked tired at times.
“But now we can work on building up his fitness and he is like a new signing.”
Speaking of signing’s Clarke was in bullish mood as to whether or not the club’s star names would be around for the fourth round ties at the end of the month.
He said: “The January transfer window is something that is there and you just have to put up with it.
“There is going to be a lot of speculation about players coming and players going.
“We come in every day and we try to do our work as best we can. We have one more FA Cup tie in January, hopefully we get a nice home draw and we will put out a strong team and try and progress in that competition.”
He added: “I think you see by the performance that all the players are committed. You can talk about speculation in the transfer window all day, but that is all it is.
“You guys love it, I understand it, but we are just concentrating on the next game and that is Newcastle away.”
West Ham will head there on the back of three straight wins – whether or not Craig Bellamy, Scott Parker and the other ‘transfer targets’ will be with them remains to be seen.
Manager Gianfranco Zola was conspicuous by his absence from the post-match press conference – choosing instead to shoot to Sardinia with a festive message for his family rather than stick around to field calls from Premier League vultures circling his players.
Zola’s absence left assistant manager Steve Clarke to trot out the ‘we are just concentrating on the football’ line.
And he is quite right to do so.
West Ham were convincing in the way they dispatched the Championship opposition who enjoyed a run to the Semi-Finals last year - so the players at least are clearly concentrating on the football.
Matthew Upson’s absence was put down to ‘the flu’ rather than any imminent transfer and one ‘new’ face made a welcome appearance – Kieron Dyer finally getting on the pitch after more than a year out.
Clarke was impressed with the England international’s performance but recognised he has a long way to go to full fitness.
He said: “It was good to get Kieron back. He’s obviously had a terrible time with injuries.
“We all feel for him and he’s been working ever so hard just to get on the pitch again.
“Today was good for him. I thought he showed some good touches.
“He also showed that he is nowhere near full match fitness as he looked tired at times.
“But now we can work on building up his fitness and he is like a new signing.”
Speaking of signing’s Clarke was in bullish mood as to whether or not the club’s star names would be around for the fourth round ties at the end of the month.
He said: “The January transfer window is something that is there and you just have to put up with it.
“There is going to be a lot of speculation about players coming and players going.
“We come in every day and we try to do our work as best we can. We have one more FA Cup tie in January, hopefully we get a nice home draw and we will put out a strong team and try and progress in that competition.”
He added: “I think you see by the performance that all the players are committed. You can talk about speculation in the transfer window all day, but that is all it is.
“You guys love it, I understand it, but we are just concentrating on the next game and that is Newcastle away.”
West Ham will head there on the back of three straight wins – whether or not Craig Bellamy, Scott Parker and the other ‘transfer targets’ will be with them remains to be seen.
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