Friday, March 31, 2006

Teddy at 40

An early happy birthday to Teddy Sheringham who turns 40 tomorrow. It is hard to think of another player who has the same universal appeal as Teddy Sheringham or who would be a better role model for our young side.

Niall Clarke, head of techinal support at West Ham, told uefa.com, "Teddy's biggest asset is the psychological aspect, his desire. His enthusiasm is like an 18-year-old. He just loves football. Every single day he trains with 100 per cent intensity with the rest of the players. At the end of each session he goes to the gym and has his own little routine. His nutrition is very good, he always eats properly. It's mainly in pre-season that we do a lot of our physical work and he was fantastic."

West Ham vs Charlton

West Ham meet Charlton just as they are discovering some good form after a poor mid-season. The Addicks have won seven and drawn one in their last ten home games but have failed to win an away Premiership match in their last ten attempts. With West Ham's decent home record and with Harewood having scored four times in the last four home games expect the Hammers to bounce back after the loss against Man Utd. West Ham's next game is away to Chelsea so the Hammers will be determined to win this game.

The game is being show live on Sky.

Thursday, March 30, 2006

West Ham vs Liverpool

West Ham's home Premiership clash with Liverpool has finally been rearranged for Wednesday 26th April with a kick-off time of 7.45pm.

Other News Anton Ferdinand has responded positively to being left on the bench against Man Utd, acknowledging that Collins has played well in the last two games,

"There was a bit of banter (with Rio). He wanted to see if I was fit, that was the main thing. I was in the end and he's a bit disappointed I wasn't playing but he knows that's the way it goes in football. If you're injured and the team wins two games on the bounce, it's not like you're going to come straight back in."

Glen Johnson to Return

There are more rumours around today that Pardew is unimpressed with Scaloni and will not look to make his loan deal permanent. Instead West Ham have been linked once again with exHammer Glen Johnson.

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

Man Utd 1 West Ham 0

Man Utd, with an unfamiliar defence (Vidic, Pique, Rio & Evra), started poorly and West Ham created a few chances early on. In the first ten minutes the Hammers had four corners, Etherington fired over the bar and Ashton had a shot deflected wide.

After ten minutes Man Utd settled down and created chances of their own. Ronaldo shot a 30 yrd free kick into Hislop's hands and Fletcher shot just wide from six yards. Both sides had a number of chances to score after that. Harewood shot weakly from just outside the box which Van de Sar saved easily. Ashton headed wide from an Etherington cross. Pique had a 30 yrd shot that Hislop palmed over the bar. Vidic hit the post after latching onto a corner. Van Nistleroy slotted the ball home from an offside position. Ashton shot just wide from another left wing cross and Harewood shot straight at Van De Sar from just outside the box. In the last ten minutes of the half West Ham probably had the most possession but just before half-time Park beat Konchesky on Man Utd's right wing and cut the ball back for Van Nistelroy to score from a couple of yards.

With Etherington having had a lot of joy down the left wing against the inexperienced Pique in the first half West Ham probably weren't too disheartened going in at the break. However Man Utd started the second half the stronger. Rooney shot wide from a freekick. Ruud had a shot from just outside the box saved by Hislop. Ronaldo had a shot deflected into Hislop's hands. Rooney hit the bar and Van Nistelroy shot the rebound at Hislop. West Ham faced one way traffic but defended well and as the game progressed, and the Reds failed to score, the hope grew that the Hammers might be able to sneak a late goal. It wasn't to be, but West Ham can take heart from their defensive display tonight.

Man Utd vs West Ham

I can't find any free live links for tonight's game. Extended highlights are being shown on Sky Sports 1 in the UK at 22:15. A lot of satellite channels are showing this game, so check back just before kick off and hopefully I'll find a link.

PPstream link - Ok apparently it will be on here, although it seems to be a dead link at the moment.

There is live radio commentary (UK only) on BBC Radio Five Live.

Tuesday, March 28, 2006

Stephen Kelly On His Way to Upton Park?

Spurs full back Stephen Kelly appears to be refusing to sign a new contract with the club. It is rumoured that West Ham made an offer for the player in the January transfer window, that was rejected. It is therefore likely that with West Ham's continuing right back problems the club may attempt to sign another player from our feeder club to the north, in the summer.

West Ham Target Duscher to Stay at Depor

West Ham and Manchester Utd target Aldo Duscher will not be sold this summer, according to Deportivo La Coruna coach Joaquin Caparros. Despite the cash-strapped club having to sell players at the end of the season Caparros said, "There are players like Duscher, Sergio and Capdevila who it is vital we keep however bad the club's financial situation is."

Although Depor may only be talking up Duscher's transfer price this news presumably prices Duscher out of West Ham's reach.

Man Utd vs West Ham

West Ham travel to Old Trafford at a time when United have hit their stride after what was for them a dodgy start to the season. Manchester United have won their last six home games, scoring 16 goals and conceding just 3. Of the 19 games we have played at Old Trafford since 1980 we have won just the two and drawn one. This season only Blackburn have won away at Old Trafford. But anything is possible in this game and with Harewoood and Ashton up front I wouldn't bet against us scoring. I'm not so confident that the defence can hold out against the United attack. However Anton Ferdinand should be back, the club website today report him as fully recovered from his injury.

Wes Brown(groin)and Kieran Richardson(ankle)for United are definitely out of the game.

Monday, March 27, 2006

Man Utd vs West Ham

Man Utd have won their last six league games but Alex Ferguson has hinted that he may change their team against West Ham,

"...we have two massive games coming up and I may make one or two changes on Wednesday just to freshen things up a little bit."

This could mean that Ruud Van Nistleroy starts.

Other News
Shaka Hislop who hinted earlier in the season that he would retire at the end of the season has changed his mind now that he has had a run in the side,

"Things have changed quite dramatically," said Hislop. "I've changed my mind about my future... I'm enjoying my football and I would love a new contract."

Sunday, March 26, 2006

Reo-Coker and Harewood Goals

West Ham's Wigan goals are available here:

Harewood
Reo-Coker

Both video's take a long, long time to load but that it is partly due to the quality. You can download them which might be quicker.

Saturday, March 25, 2006

Wigan 1 West Ham 2

Wigan opened the scoring at the end of the first half when Lee McCulloch shot right-footed from 30 yards into the top of the West Ham net. In the second half Marlon Harewood equalised scoring right-footed from the left side of the six-yard box.

In injury time Reo-Coker won the game for the Hammers, latching on to a Sheringham pass.

Wigan vs West Ham

I haven't found any free live streams of today's game. Apparently you can see a recording of the whole game, with English commentary here at 21:30 (requires TVAnts - Google it if you need a free download). The link doesn't work at the moment, so I am assuming it becomes active at 21:30.

Or, if you want to pay £2 it is on fltv.cc

Radio commentary is available today on BBC Five Live Extra (UK only).

Friday, March 24, 2006

West Ham Semi-Final

The Football Association have confirmed that our FA Cup semi-final against Charlton Athletic or Middlesbrough will take place at Villa Park on Sunday, April 23. The game will kick-off at 4.00pm and is to be televised live on Sky Sports. The other semi-final, between Chelsea and Liverpool, will be played at Old Trafford on Saturday, April 22 (kick-off 5.15pm). Middlesbrough and Charlton will contest their quarter-final replay at the Riverside Stadium on Wednesday, April 12

FA Cup Semi-Final Draw

West Ham v Charlton Athletic or Middlesbrough
Chelsea v Liverpool

Games to be played on Saturday 22 April/Sunday 23 April

Repka News

Uefa.com have an interview with Tomas Repka in which he talks about his time at West Ham. He explains his early difficulties,

"I didn't want to move to London at all as I was fully satisfied in Florence. Our son was born there and Serie A was considered stronger than the Premier League five years ago. I felt it was like a regression when Fiorentina sold me to ease their financial troubles. So I was sulky in London, I even refused to learn English, only speaking with my Italian team-mate Paolo Di Canio. I was het up and played regardless and was booked 14 times and sent off twice during the first season."

Repka also talks about his decision to leave the Hammers,

"There were family reasons to go back. But I also felt that I was unable to give more to the side and I needed a change. As I have said, I like a challenge."

Thursday, March 23, 2006

Wigan vs West Ham - Preview

After consecutive league defeats West Ham will hope that they can take heart from Monday's excellent display and recapture their previous league form. Wigan away will be a tough game but West Ham, in tenth place in the league, are only three points behind the Latics, and have a game in hand. This match therefore provides a good opportunity to leapfrog one of our closest league rivals.

Team News For West Ham Anton Ferdinand is a doubt because of the thigh injury that kept him out of the City game. For Wigan goalkeeper Mike Pollitt and Ryan Taylor are both out.

Other News Young forward Petr Mikolanda will leave West Ham at the end of the season. The 21-year-old joined the Hammers in the summer with a reputation as being one for the future, yet he has failed to settle at Upton Park and his contract will not be renewed. Mikolanda responding to the news has been realisitic about his chances at Upton Park,

"I understand why, they have five great strikers at the club and there's simply no room for me and it won't get better in the summer.

Crystal Palace have reportedly handed a trial to West Ham striker Teddy Sheringham's 18-year-old son Charlie.

West Ham Transfer Rumour

Watch the video below. This striker has a wonderful touch. Come on West Ham sign her up now.

Wednesday, March 22, 2006

Dailly Out Till April

West Ham's Christian Dailly is set to miss the next four weeks after suffering a hamstring injury against Man City. Despite only playing a squad role this season and being much maligned by the Hammers' fans Dailly is an important back-up for the first team. Recent league games have exposed the lack of depth in West Ham's squad. Luckily for the Hammers Collins immense display, playing in place of Ferdinand, against Man City confirms that there is adequate coverage in defence.

Frank McAvennie Hails Ashton

Frank McAvenniee today praised Ashton in The Daily Mirror, "I saw him play against Everton recently and when he went clean through I was crying out for him to smash one in with the left foot and he did just that.

"It was at that point I thought 'He'll do for me'. The club have been crying out for a prolific forward and they seem to have found one. Marlon Harewood is good but he does not win many aerial balls ... he has more than shown he can compete at the highest level."

Reo-Coker Praises Pardew

Interviewed in The Guardian today Nigel Reo-Coker praises Alan Pardew for surviving the traumas of last season and exceeeding everyone's expectations this season. He also defended Pardew from the criticism he received for resting three players on Saturday,

"We were just poor against Portsmouth, that's the bottom line. It had nothing to do with players being rested. Only three players were left out - Matt Etherington, Hayden Mullins and Dean Ashton - and no one said a word about City resting eight for their game."

Other News

West Ham's final Premiership away game of the season, at West Bromwich Albion, has been moved back to Monday, May 1.

The match was originally due to take place at the Hawthorns on Saturday, April 29, but has now been put back by 48 hours and will be televised live on Sky Sports (kick-off 8.00pm).

West Ham United first team coach Peter Grant has signed a new long-term contract at Upton Park.

Tuesday, March 21, 2006

Quarter-Final Goals

Ashton's goals against Man City...



FA Cup Semi-Final Draw

The FA Cup Semi Final Draw will be at 12.55pm on Friday 24 March. Games will be played over the weekend of April 22 and April 23, meaning Liverpool's scheduled league game at Upton Park will now be moved to a later date.

West Ham receive £300,000 for winning last night's game and £265,000 for television rights. Each winning semi-finalist will receive £900,000.

Monday, March 20, 2006

Man City 1 West Ham 2

In the first ten minutes Man City created a few chances. Their clearest chance fell to Kiki Musampa on 10 minutes. He received the ball half way in the West Ham half, ran forward and saw the West Ham defence part in front of him. Luckily his shot, from just outside the box, went flying over the bar. West Ham didn't really look comfortable until City defender Jordan was injured and replaced. The Hammers then started to retain possession more and to put a few passing moves together. However both sides failed to create any clear cut chances until some individual magic by Ashton on the 40th minute. Ashton received the ball just inside the City box, flicked the ball with his right foot behind his left, left the City defence for dead and then drilled the ball with his left foot into the net from 12 yards.

On 50 mins Etherington rifled a dipping shot from 20 yards, which had James beat, but just clipped the top of the bar. On 55 minutes Sun Jihai was clearly obstructing Etherington in trying to shepherd the ball out of play, which he succeeded to do, only, for some unknown reason, to have a lame swing at Etherington. The result was his sending off. For a while City, with ten men, came to life. On 59 minutes Wright-Philips shot from outside the box and just missed past the left post. The game became more open and on 60 mins Benayoun received the ball from Ashton only to mishit his shot from outside the area. On 62 mins Vassel shot again safely into Hislop's hands. On 65 mins Riera shot from the edge of the box along the ground only to see Hislop make an easy save.

After 68 minutes with Dailly lying on the ground injured, Man City refused to kick the ball out. West Ham won the ball back in their own half and on the break Reo-Coker ran at the last City defender, passed the balll left to Benayoun, who ran towards the near post, drawing James before passing sqaure to Ashton who had an easy tap in to an empty goal. Dailly was replaced by Scaloni. On 80 mins Reo-Coker was booked and replaced immediately by Carl Fletcher.

On 85 minutes with West Ham looking in control Dunne crossed back from the right wint to just outside the box and Musampa hit a sweet volley into the back of the West Ham net. On 88 mins Ashton was replaced by Zamora. West Ham faced a nervous last few minutes with City throwing everything forward but West Ham held on for the win.

Semi-final of the cup. Bring it on

Man City vs West Ham

Ferdinand and Etherington have both been named in tonight's squad but face fitness tests. The official West Ham site claims Anton is a 'major doubt' for the game. Hislop is also named in the squad but Walker is expected to play. Tonight's game will be a tough challenge for West Ham, even if Ferdinand and Etherington play. Before making eight changes to the team and losing against Wigan on Saturday Man City had won the previous seven games at the City of Manchester Stadium. West Ham lost 2-1 there in the league this season, and the result flattered the Hammers' performance on the day.

The good news for the Hammers is that City have some injury worries of their own. Georgios Samaras, who has been in rich goalscoring form of late, hurt his knee in the weekend defeat against Wigan. Antoine Sibierski had to be replaced because of a dead leg. Claudio Reyna also picked up a shoulder injury. All three face fitness tests today.

Links to live streaming of the game can be found here (free - but you have to register).

And finally, one reason why we will win tonight ...

Sunday, March 19, 2006

Lineker Criticises Pardew

Gary Lineker writing in the Torygraph today has criticised Alan Pardew's complaints against having to play in the cup on a Monday straight after a Saturday game.

"Having the FA Cup quarter-finals spread over four days this week is a bit of an inconvenience - for television, not just the clubs. But, hey, what if the result of all this congestion and rescheduling is that a properly rested and prepared England do really well at the World Cup, perhaps even win it. Won't it all have been worth it? When the English game then benefits from another boom, the bleating of Alan Pardew and other critics will seem very small-minded."

This is obviously completely unfair on Pardew. I'm sure Pardew and Pearce would be happy to play on Wednesday night. This situation has been created by the FA and there seems to be no logic in playing the four games over four nights.

Ferdinand and Etherington Injuries

West Ham duo Anton Ferdinand and Matthew Etherington face fitness tests ahead of Monday´s FA Cup quarter final at Manchester City. Anton Ferdinand was injured against Portsmouth and is suffering from a thigh injury and Etherington has a back injury. Shaka Hislop is regarded as a major doubt because of a hamstring problem.

Saturday, March 18, 2006

West Ham 2 Portsmouth 4

West Ham started with Walker, Katan, Dailly and Clarke. Mullins didn't even make it to the bench.

West Ham were over-run in midfield from the start. On the 18th minute Matthew Taylor crossed for LuaLua who scored from the centre of the penalty area from 6 yards. Davies scored the second seven minutes later, again from 6 yards out, from a cross by Brian Priske.

It took West Ham half an hour to get going. On 32 minutes Reo-Coker managed to get a shot on target from a corner, only for Taylor to clear on the line. A few minutes later, from 25 yrds, Sheringham bent a free kick round the wall but just wide of the post. A minute later Teddy managed another shot, which was saved by Kiely.

However, with West Ham beginning to create chances, on 43 minutes Portsmouth broke forward and Mendes scored Portsmouth's third.

For the second half Clive Clarke was replaced by Yossi Benayoun and Yaniv Katan was replaced by Marlon Harewood.

On 68 minutes Teddy Sheringham got a goal back after a Konscheshy shot from 20 yards cannoned back off the post and Sheringham shot home from 12 yards. However things only got worse from there. On 75 minutes Ferdinand was injured and replaced and then Todorov scored for Portsmouth after 77 minutes. In injury time Benayoun got a second for West Ham.

Conceding four goals in consecutive league games and Ferdinand injured, luckily we have an easy away game at Man City in the cup three days away.

West Ham vs Portsmouth

West Ham have named the same squad, except for Walker in for the injured Hislop, as for the Bolton FA Cup match. However with West Ham to face Man City on Monday it is practically guaranteed that Pardew will make changes for today's game. I expect Zamora and Teddy to start but after last Saturday's heavy defeat it is difficult to predict what other changes Pardew will make. Personally I'd like to see Katan given a chance.

This is Redknap's first return to Upton park as an opposing manager and he is expected to play Argentian D'Alessandro just behind strikers Lomana LuaLua and ex-Hammer Svetoslav Todorov.

Found a new directory of live streaming games (you have to register). Unfortunately the West Ham game doesn't seem to be being shown anywhere today.

Or pay £2 and watch it here FLTV. Never used this site myself but quality is reported to be OK.

Friday, March 17, 2006

West Ham vs Portsmouth

With a number of teams in the relegation zone openly voicing their concerns that West Ham will play a weakened team tomorrow the Hammers are set to make a forced change. Goalkeeper Shaka Hislop has been ruled out of Saturday's Premiership clash against Portsmouth and is a doubt for the FA cup quarter final against Man City. The veteran shot stopper has a hamstring problem, luckily Jimmy Walker has recently recovered from his injury in last year's play-off final and has a couple of reserves games under his belt.

Thursday, March 16, 2006

West Ham vs Portsmouth - Hammers to Rest Players

With West Ham progressing to the FA Cup quarter finals and now set to play four games in nine days (including the two already played against Bolton) Pardew's decision to rest players on Saturday has been justified. West Ham were heavily defeated by Bolton on Saturday but it is obvious that Pardew prioritised last night's game and banked on a home win against struggling Portsmouth on Saturday.

However with West Ham having to play extra time last night and Pardew reporting today that, "Four players suffered from cramp and I have got some guys struggling in the changing room" the Hammers will also probably have to rest players in the Portsmouth game.

Wednesday, March 15, 2006

West Ham 2 Bolton 1

West Ham started the game well, retaining possession and looking the better side. The early pressure paid off after nine minutes when Harewood crossed low from the right wing and Nicky Hunt, under no pressure, kicked the ball against Jaaskelainen and saw it rebound into his own goal.

After the goal Bolton began to exert more pressure. West Ham seemed to concede space in midfield and on the half-hour Reo-Coker lost the ball on the half way line. The ball was quickly passed forward to Kevin Davies who was in yards of space just outside the box. His shot was almost straight at Hislop but the keeper was wrong footed and the ball swerved just out of his reach to make it one each.

West Ham's best move of the half came just before half time when Benayoun played a one-two with Reo-Coker and shot from about five yards straight at the keeper.

Bolton started the second half brighter, West Ham, playing deep and conceding possession every time they got the ball. After 50 minutes Bolton coasted down the right wing and Gardner shot into the side of the net.

After 57 minutes West Ham came alive. In quick succession they carved out a couple of chances, which were snuffed out by the Bolton defence but seemed to give the Hammers some confidence. On 68 minutes, after good work by Harewood on the right wing again, the keeper spilled the ball to Etherington, two yards out, who couldn't dig the ball out of his feet in time to score a relatively easy goal. The ball was eventually deflected wide for a corner.

On 74 minutes Etherington crossed from the left wing but Benayoun's header went wide. A minute later Nolan in space just inside the West Ham box fired a shot just over the bar. On 82 minutes Etherington won a free kick just outside the box on the left wing. His free kick was headed by Harewood into the keeper's hands. A minute later from another free kick from the left Mullins glanced a header wide from six yards. Bolton then broke forward and Pederson just headed over from a couple of yards. Davies a minute later just got onto a dipping ball, but stretching just shot over.

Extra Time

Bolton started the brighter. After 3 minutes Pedersen headed over from one yard with only Hislop to beat. However on 5 minutes Etherington drifted in from the right wing in his own half, beat a player, knocked a lovely curving ball out to Benayoun on the right wing. Benayoun knocked an excellent cross into the box and Harewood on the front post knocked the ball past the keeper.

Pardew then substituted Reo-Coker, replacing him with Dailly. West Ham dropped deep. Om 11 minutes Davies shot over from just inside the box. On 15 minutes Davies shot hard from three yards. The ball hit Ferdinand and then a Bolton player before being cleared.

Second Half

Sheringham and Zamora came on for Ashton and Etherington. Harewood moved out to the right wing and Benayoun played on the left. On 21 minutes Scaloni had a long range shot saved by the keeper. On 24 minutes Nolan shot straight at Hislop from 25 yards. On 25 minutes Jaaskelainen rushed out of his area, mishit his clearance, Sheringham tried a long shot from about 40 yards, the ball was deflected by a Bolton player and Zamora failed to head in from a couple of yards out. However Zamora did well in the remaining minutes to hold the ball up when he received it and West Ham held out to win.

Two games to Cardiff!

West Ham line-Up for Bolton Game

Alan Pardew will revert back to West Ham's tried-and-trusted line-up for tonight's FA Cup fifth round replay against Bolton. Anton Ferdinand is set to move from midfield back into the heart of West Ham's defence, while rested trio Yossi Benayoun, Dean Ashton and Marlon Harewood are all in line to start.

Captain Nigel Reo-Coker has returned to training and is available in midfield after shaking off the effects of a bug.

Tuesday, March 14, 2006

Player for the Future - James Tompkins

A year ago defender James Tompkins became West Ham's youngest ever reserve team scorer at the age of 16 in only his second reserve team appearance. He has strength, physical presence and heading prowess with excellent anticipation and decision making that often snuff out trouble before it happens as well as excellent ball skills that see him easing away from challenges before setting up an attack with an admirable range of passing. He was amongst the goals again in the Irons' reserves 5-2 demolition of Leicester a couple of weeks ago, but can also be found playing for the youth side on Saturday mornings. He is seen as a defender in the mould of Bobby Moore, and the Ferdinands. Expect him to line up alongside Anton in a few seasons time.

Monday, March 13, 2006

Sheringham Goal Against Bolton

I know you would rather forget this game, but at least we got a goal.

Alan Pardew Defends Himself Against Wenger

Alan Pardew today responded to Wenger's "Is it coz I iz black?", racism jibe.

"In light of the media coverage surrounding my recent comments, I would like to make one or two things clear. When I said it was disappointing that there were no British players in the Arsenal team that went through to the last eight in the Champions League, I was not being racist or xenophobic, as Arsene Wenger has suggested.

A manager who is married to a Swede and has signed players from Ireland, Wales, Argentina, Israel and France, while giving trials to players from Japan and Poland, cannot be called racist. Our multi-cultural approach to our squad is something I'm proud of. But I care passionately about our game and will always give my views honestly and from the heart."

My view is that if we are to have strong British national sides - and success at that level boosts crowds and revenue in our domestic leagues - then we need to have young British players coming through."

Sunday, March 12, 2006

Pardew Takes Responsibility for Defeat

Alan Pardew today admitted that he was at fault for yesterday's heavy defeat, "I made some changes thinking that they would make us stronger defensively, but it didn't work out like that. I thought that, with Anton protecting the back four, Shaun Newton on the right and Elliott Ward - who has done very well on loan at Plymouth - in defence, it would make us stronger, but unfortunately that wasn't the case.

Perhaps there were too many changes. I wouldn't put the blame at anyone's door individually - it was a little bit of this and a little bit of that in the team today and I have to take responsibility for that."

Hopefully by admitting that the defeat was largely down to his own tatical errors he can restore some confidence in the players after they suffered a 4-1 defeat, which if we are honest could have been far heavier.

Defoe Regrets Leaving West Ham

Jermain Defoe has apologised for the circumstances of his leaving West Ham.

"I was young, badly advised and made a mistake. I didn't have enough experience to deal with what I was being told. I wish I hadn't put the transfer request in at all, never mind biding my time. People say to me that I should have waited a week and then put it in. But I just wish I hadn't done it at all."

Defoe has spent most of this season on the bench at Spurs and consequently could well have lost the place in the England World Cup Squad that seemed almost guaranteed him a year ago. It looks like Defoe is now trying to wrangle another transfer. West Ham fans would not welcome him back and West Ham's current crop of young in form strikers means that it is unlikely we would bid for him. All Defoe can achieve through this statement is to alienate himself from Spurs fans, who will hardly welcome his confession that he wished he had never left the Hammers.

We Could Have Signed Drogba and Mpenza

Former West Ham scout Paul Montgomery claims that after West Ham finished seventh in the league Glenn Roeder lined up a number of transfers but was told by the board there was no money.

"For example, we had Didier Drogba for only £1.2m And Chelsea topped £20m to get him. Think of that. We also had his mate Maluda for almost £1m - he's now Lyon's top man and is worth £8m. Another was Emile Mpenza, who is now at Hamburg. He would have cost us £1m. Add Manziz, a Turkish international striker who was on a free transfer, and the bright young talent already there and West Ham would have had a Champions League team."

Saturday, March 11, 2006

Bolton 4 West Ham 1

With Ashton, Harewood, and Yossi not starting, with Ferdinand in midfield and with Newton and Ward starting it was not suprising that West Ham looked all at sea at the start of this match. And as the half progessed they seemed to become less and less sure of the formation.

Bolton opened the scoring in the twelfth minute when a long ball into the box was flicked over Hislop, cannoned back off the post and Stelios ran past a static West Ham defence to put the ball in the back of the net.

In the 30th minute, following a number of unforced errors in defence and an awful clearance from Hislop, a 20yrd shot was deflected by Stelios into the net.

In the last few minutes Okocha had two long range shots saved well by Hislop and on the brink of half time Speed scored an overhead shot from close range. In truth Bolton could have been up by at least six at the break.

In the second half Ferdinand dropped back into defence and Benayoun and Dailly came on for Newton and Ward. With this more familiar line-up West Ham began to look their normal selves. In the 75th minute after good work from Etherington on the wing, the ball was pulled back to Yossi, who shot at the keeper and Sheringham scored from the rebound, two yards out. Any slight hopes West Ham had of a comeback were dispelled however almost immediately, when Pedesen drifted on to a ball on the edge of the area unmarked and shot past Hislop.

Obviously Pardew was looking to rest players in this game but his starting formation was naive at the least. West Ham went into this game as the in form team in the league. This game can only have dented their confidence.

West Ham Line-Up

Nigel Reo-Coker has not travelled to Bolton because of illness and is not in today's squad. Marlon Harewood has been named in the squad despite his wife giving birth on Wednesday evening.

Full Squad: Hislop, Bywater, Scaloni, Dailly, Gabbidon, Ferdinand, Ward, Collins, Konchesky, Benayoun, Newton, Mullins, Etherington, Ashton, Sheringham, Harewood, Zamora, Katan.

The game can be watched here. Requires downloading some software, smalll and painless though.

This stream requires no downloading but the only time I watched a game here there was a lot of lag.

Friday, March 10, 2006

Alan Pardew Wins Manager of the Month

Alan Pardew has been named Barclays Premiership Manager of the Month for February.

Presenting the award, Jim Hytner, from the Barclays Awards Panel, said: “Alan Pardew should be congratulated on this award win, West Ham have proved to be more than a match for most teams this season. There is a talented crop of young English players at Upton Park now, and under Pardew's guidance, they will hopefully fulfil their ambitions with both club and country.”

Pardew himself paid tribute to the work of other around him, saying: “This is an award for the tremendous work that the team, squad and staff have put in - not just last month but throughout the season.

”We thank Barclays and it is an honour for the whole club. I believe we have the best backroom staff in the country and this award is a reflection of that.”

Live Streaming of West Ham vs Bolton

Tomorrow's game is available via PPlive, PPstream and TVants. All require a small software download, but this is quick and painless.The software and links to the games are available here.

Alan Pardew today claimed that 4th place in the league was unrealistic this season and that the target was at least 6th place and a place in the UEFA Cup

Thursday, March 09, 2006

Barcelona Hammers Association

There has been some speculation on West Ham boards as to the presence of West Ham banners at the Nou Camp during the Barcelona vs. Chelsea Champions League game. The banners in question belong to the Barcelona Hammer Association. According to their website "...they were formed at the end of the Eighties, when a group of Catalans started showing interest in West Ham Utd. In 1994 they decided to form the BHA. After a bit of organisation, a few of the lads decided on making a trip to Upton Park for a 93-94 league match against Norwich. At this game the Associations banner was unveiled, with the legend "Barcelona Hammer"". The interest may have originally begun for no better reason than that there is some similarity in the team colours of both sides.

The next step is obviously to make the link between the two teams more official. I for one think that Barcelona would benefit from some extended loan-swaps between the two squads. I suggest that we take Lionel Messi on loan for a year, whilst Barcelona could only benefit from the Brazillian like skills of Christian Dailly.

Wednesday, March 08, 2006

Benni Again

From eatsleepsport.com, "Alan Pardew is ready to resurrect a £4million-plus deal in a bid to land FC Porto's South African striker Benni McCarthy in the summer. The Hammers boss has been chasing the 28-year-old since last summer having identified McCarthy as the man to spearhead his side's return to the Premiership.
After seeing off the challenge of Blackburn Rovers and having a £4.4million bid accepted, Pardew looked set to complete a swoop just before the August 31 transfer deadline only for the Portuguese outfit to up their demands at the eleventh hour.

Pardew has since paid a club record £7.25million for Norwich City hitman Dean Ashton and recently tied veteran Teddy Sheringham to a new contract.

However, renewed reports insist the boss remains intent on landing his initial target to bolster his forward line to build on this season's achievements next term."

Tuesday, March 07, 2006

West Ham Linked with Spanish Under-21 Star

West Ham United have been linked with a summer move for Osasuna midfielder Raul Garcia. The 19-year-old has already caught the eye of Chelsea and Manchester United this term following a string of impressive displays in La Liga.

The Spanish Under-21 international recently said of interest from England, "Whatever happens, if anything at all, will happen at the end of the season. At the moment I am paying no attention and only thinking about Osasuna."

West Ham and Man Utd to Bid for Aldo Duscher

According to tribalfootball.com Alan Pardew has invited Duscher to London to visit Upton Park.

However, in recent days a United intermediary has contacted Deportive president Augusto Cesar Lendoiro and informed him they're willing to begin the bidding at £7 million for the Argentina international.

Monday, March 06, 2006

Glen Roeder Talks Crap

Glenn Roeder today described his ... "time as manager at West Ham as like hitting the inside of the post and the ball coming out."

A more accurate description would be that he had an open goal but somehow managed to send the ball 100 yards in the wrong direction, where it landed in his own net.

Okocha and Bruno N'Gotty doubtful for West Ham Match

It is believed that Bolton could be without Jay-Jay Okocha and Bruno N'Gotty for the West Ham game, this coming Saturday, after the duo picked up injuries in the defeat against Newcastle.

West Ham after Upson and Pennant

Even more transfer rumours. According to The Mirror West Ham are chasing Birmingham City pair Matthew Upson and Jermaine Pennant. Pardew is said to be a fan of both players, both of whom also fit into his policy of buying young English talent. Birmingham would resist all offers but their hand might be forced if they are relegated.

Charlton Athletic manager Alan Curbishley has dismissed speculation that defender Luke Young could leave the Valley. The England international has been linked with a £5million move to West Ham United, reports that the Addicks boss was eager to play down. "Luke rang me up from the England training camp and said he hadn't said anything. He doesn't know where this story has come from."

Sunday, March 05, 2006

West Ham After Luke Young?

Alan Pardew has apologised to Chuckle brother Phil Neville after they exchanged words on the touchline yesterday. Expect Mourinho to make a similar apology for his behaviour sometime today (not).

Fansfc today joined the speculation over West Ham's right back position. They report that West Ham are ready to offer £5 million for want away Charlton defender Luke Young. - fansfc

Saturday, March 04, 2006

West Ham vs Everton Goals

West Ham didn't look to be at the races today, especially in the second half, perhaps suffering from their two week break. Anyway, focusing on the positive, that is eight matches in all competitions unbeaten and Harewood and Ashton both scored excellent goals. (Video is very poor quality, but you don't have to watch.)

Result: West Ham 2 Everton 2

Att: 34866

West Ham had the better of an open first half. Harewood opened the scoring after 11 minutes, finishing off a nice passing move by firing home low from the edge of the area.

Nine minutes later Leon Osman equallised from a pass by Mikel Arteta. West Ham responded almost immediately, Dean Ashton racing past the labouring David Weir on the left and slotting home from an acute angle. In the end West Ham were unlucky not to go in at half-time with 3 or 4 goals.

In the second half it was nearly all Everton. James Beattie got the equalliser in the 70th minute, lobbing right-footed from the centre of the penalty area. After that Everton pressurised the West Ham area but the Hammers held on for the draw. James Beattie should have won the game for Everton but missed a sitter in the dying seconds.

Friday, March 03, 2006

Hammers in for Duscher

According to ITV Football

"West Ham are reportedly prepared to offer up to £8million for Deportivo La Coruna midfielder Aldo Duscher. The Argentine hard man has been a reported target for Manchester United in recent months as they try to replace Roy Keane.

However the Hammers have emerged as major contenders for his signature. Marca claims that the 26-year-old has been informed of the Londoners' bid by his representatives, although he personally would prefer a move to Old Trafford. But his final destination could be swung by the fact the Upton Park outfit have made signing him their top priority, while United have other options. Alan Pardew is a big Duscher fan and has only recently signed his Deportivo team-mate Lionel Scaloni on loan for the rest of the season.

Duscher of course is famous in this country for the challenge that almost put David Beckham out of the 2002 World Cup finals. "

West Ham vs Everton

West Ham players received no new injuries away on international duty, so the only problem Pardew has is who to play up front. Roy Carroll has undegone surgery on his back and will be absent for at least six weeks.

Tony Hibbert and Phil Neville return after one-match bans.

West Ham have won the last five league games and Everton have only lost one game in eight games.

Teddy Signs New Contract

Sheringham has signed a new contract with the Hammers that will keep him at the club at least until the end of next season. Teddy will be 40 in April and has made 14 Premiership appearances for the Hammers this season, scoring four top-flight goals.

Thursday, March 02, 2006

West Ham and Dwight Yorke?

The Guardian reports that West Ham are among a handful of English clubs after Dwight Yorke following his two goals for Trindad and Tabago against Iceland yesterday. Yorke, currently playing for Sydney FC in Australia, would presumably welcome a return to the Premiership, although West Ham, with an abundant strike force seem unlikely bidders.

Tribal Football report that West Brom are keen to sign him. I suspect this is another Guardian misprint.

Teddy for England

Pardew informed Sky Sports today that any of the four English West Ham forwards are as good as Bent or Defoe and that Sheringham could still do a job for England, "... you could take Teddy for a number of reasons. He's only going to be a positive force around the squad. If you needed him to come on, settle things down or create something, he could achieve that."

Pardew also hinted that West Ham and Teddy were close to agreeing a new contract.

Elsewhere, international Hammers all had poor results. Christian Dailly (Scotland), Lionel Scaloni (Argentina) and Israeli pair Yossi Benayoun and Yaniv Katan tasted defeat for their national teams. This should make them look foward even more to returning to a winning team.

Only the 'Welsh' trio of Danny Gabbidon, James Collins and Carl Fletcher achieved any success with their national squad. Wales achieved a reasonable 0-0 draw against Paraguay.

Mark Delaney is the Latest Future Right Back

Mark Delaney who is currently in a contract dispute with Aston Villa, refusing to sign a new contract, is the latest right back to be linked with the Hammers. Pardew is apparently monitoring the situation with the view of making a move for the the 29-year-old Welsh international in the summer.

Wednesday, March 01, 2006

Anton and Reo Captain England

Both West Ham players ended up captaining the England Under 21 squad last night as they beat Norway 3-1. Ferdinand was one of only two players to play the full 90 minutes last night and took over the captain's armband from Reo who was substituted at half time.

Shaka Hislop played the first half for Trinidad and Tobago in their friendly against Iceland at Loftus Road.

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