tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36808697519796199202024-03-13T06:25:59.489+00:00Sam's Footy BlogIm a West Ham fan and I love football. You'll find articles about anything to do with football here.Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-30346997492262325942013-01-16T19:16:00.001+00:002013-01-16T19:16:26.647+00:00West Ham team to play Manchester United<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jaaskelainen; Spence, Reid, Tomkins, Potts; Diame, O'Neill, Diarra; Taylor, Vaz Te, C Cole.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My thoughts-</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nice to see Spence and Potts in there. Will be an amazing experience for the two of them at such a young age.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tomkins and Reid are starting together at the back. The way it should be.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">DIAME IS BACK!</span></li>
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<br />Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-46295079236898144622013-01-13T20:32:00.000+00:002013-01-13T20:32:45.279+00:00Possible 2013-14 West Ham Shirts?<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday, I <a href="http://twitter.com/samwhufcfrancis" target="_blank">tweeted</a> an image of a West Ham 2013-14 home kit that I created. This started a bit of a discussion about the possible look of the West Ham 2013-14 kits. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I then got <a href="http://www.twitter.com/samwhufcfrancis" target="_blank">tweeted</a> this image by <a href="http://www.twitter.com/lukehines" target="_blank">@LukeHines</a>. He said that these are expected to be West Ham's shirts for the 2013-14 season. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thoughts?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWIkJqg7gTlmUWO4yspqnpBn4gQBcEpDFXt8tjPVNKJr-JU7nJtkE5tL-m66jYQYQAhE2IjhIk_ttSv-K9PF8mpfy8EfPtoSzEuoXkPwqArtyXacEQihsHVYZEVsj_ZocJObbZz6Gn3Ie/s1600/possible2012-13kits.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWIkJqg7gTlmUWO4yspqnpBn4gQBcEpDFXt8tjPVNKJr-JU7nJtkE5tL-m66jYQYQAhE2IjhIk_ttSv-K9PF8mpfy8EfPtoSzEuoXkPwqArtyXacEQihsHVYZEVsj_ZocJObbZz6Gn3Ie/s1600/possible2012-13kits.png" /></a></div>
<br />Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-36797731991184325982013-01-13T18:39:00.000+00:002013-01-13T18:39:09.321+00:00Weekend's Premier League Results.<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Premier League results (12/01/13 - 13/01/13)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Arsenal 0-2 Manchester City</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aston Villa 0-1 Southampton</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Everton 0-0 Swansea</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fulham 1-1 Wigan Athletic</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Manchester United 2-1 Liverpool</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Norwich City 0-0 Newcastle United</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Reading 3-2 West Bromwich Albion</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stoke City 0-4 Chelsea</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sunderland 3-0 West Ham United</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Queens Park Rangers 0-0 Tottenham Hotspur</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Game of the weekend:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Arsenal 0-2 Manchester City.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Worst game of the weekend:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Everton 0-0 Swansea.</span><br />
<br />Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-7728066714950577932013-01-13T02:55:00.000+00:002013-01-13T02:56:07.947+00:00West Ham 2013/14 kits that I have created.<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I got bored and decided to make a possible 2012/13 West Ham home kit. This is based on research and what I would like to see. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Many people have said that Adidas are making our kits and Alpari are going to be our sponsor. Ill be happy to see Adidas come and Macron go. Adidas are my favourite sports brand so Adidas making West Ham's kits would made me one happy boy. I used paint to make these kits, I found the templates on google for the shirt and the shorts. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizhUWUdwqrgqnY7iE4MG4DZgXSD-C5AoHp3zTIDz1-X1n-NwZBYzYTC0oEcyx5uJRCb4m8B8FCjRN2ZHz8Ojelb0GD0tYkeI5LkNIKC5fN5LhmVUDGHVGTNpddUjeinXJV6zPSV4v1AiZA/s1600/2012-13kits.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizhUWUdwqrgqnY7iE4MG4DZgXSD-C5AoHp3zTIDz1-X1n-NwZBYzYTC0oEcyx5uJRCb4m8B8FCjRN2ZHz8Ojelb0GD0tYkeI5LkNIKC5fN5LhmVUDGHVGTNpddUjeinXJV6zPSV4v1AiZA/s400/2012-13kits.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you would like me to make an away kit please notify me and I will some time soon.</span></div>
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Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-65634186922970744632013-01-12T18:59:00.001+00:002013-01-13T02:56:42.532+00:00West Ham United<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hello everyone. Here are my views on a few things going on at West Ham. Its nothing in specific or anything. I hope you enjoy the read. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A look ahead to the end of the month-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The 3-0 defeat to Sunderland leaves us 7 points above the relegation zone with a game in hand. Our remaining Premier League fixtures for this month are QPR (H), Arsenal (A), Fulham (A). Two away games and one home game. Following today's defeat, the game against QPR is now a must win. The R's have started picking up a few points since Harry Redknapp took over and will be full of confidence after a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge and a goalless draw against Tottenham today. The points will be vital for both teams come Saturday. I cant see us getting much from the Arsenal game, Our defence needs to be at its best from the first second to the last. Diame will be a key player for us. We then move onto Craven Cottage at the end of the month to end a run of three London Derbies. If we keep Berbatov quiet, I can see us returning to East London with all three points.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0kr_p6bl1So7U0JP_S2jC5rgaQLpAz5VEN5yxY67oLliTXOkSE6OuUkGUhoasVHBaELtMrPAKjaV3PBRIC4yH8TvEGushQmHJn4TwuX35Z2hzxRkIC3KPEowBwc8X56_vpfPbl8q7D-60/s1600/Julian-Dicks-West-Ham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0kr_p6bl1So7U0JP_S2jC5rgaQLpAz5VEN5yxY67oLliTXOkSE6OuUkGUhoasVHBaELtMrPAKjaV3PBRIC4yH8TvEGushQmHJn4TwuX35Z2hzxRkIC3KPEowBwc8X56_vpfPbl8q7D-60/s200/Julian-Dicks-West-Ham.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Julian Dicks after his final game <br />for West Ham</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The defence-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our defence is a problem. Silly mistakes are costing us points as has been proved many times this season. I don't see why we don't make a move for Julian Dicks? The ex Birmingham, Liverpool and West Ham defender is a West Ham legend. Dicks is a qualified coach and would toughen up our defence. Hopefully he could rub his no nonsense defensive style onto our back line.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Allardyce-</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEusrYz5stxbA9G2Nt8H3gie81bChlW8jqqSfy9JiD1fUUSdHx37XRKGP0mtjWthS3X24E38Dcm3w2Lse2hce6YJikKbBTLDrr6elARs_JimsQPIPPcmeu_JHa0gs1fY2sQe9XF1joT9pG/s1600/allardyce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEusrYz5stxbA9G2Nt8H3gie81bChlW8jqqSfy9JiD1fUUSdHx37XRKGP0mtjWthS3X24E38Dcm3w2Lse2hce6YJikKbBTLDrr6elARs_JimsQPIPPcmeu_JHa0gs1fY2sQe9XF1joT9pG/s200/allardyce.jpg" width="163" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sam Allardyce celebrates West Ham's play <br />off final win with Ricardo Vaz Te.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I do not understand why people are calling for Big Sam to be sacked. The last time we lost by a margin of 3 goals was on the 25th September 2012. And that was to Wigan in the League Cup. The last time we lost by 3 goals in the league was on the 25th of August away to Swansea. We made defensive errors in that game too. The errors are the team's fault, not Allardyce's fault. Its not something the big man cannot control. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When Sam joined us back in June 2011 his target was to get us promoted. Expectations were high and many fans were expecting us to go back up in style, just like Newcastle did in 2009-10. Our home performances were a problem but we were solid away. The season was full ups and downs but we did the job in the end via the play offs; as we all know. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You cant really fault the signings he has made. Captain Kevin Nolan, the most noticeable signing in the summer of 2011. Sam Baldock and Nicky Maynard were added January 2011; not to forget that bloke who cost us £500k and went onto score the winner at Wembley in May. (Vaz Te).</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1f67m55nY-8NYxrrwdi6YqPYQiFcasDwBaSV3yOybAMDOk1pXI4vFa1BmhHhUmyLf_bi9ZSUP2iv1a74LAZk2L56-7i8VN5hVSW9yUZwH7X87jVcyXWp5R7qcghv8-DsTT43jEOs4vtk2/s1600/Winston+Reid+West+Ham+United+v+Blackpool+npower+lPPfOQGRqw3l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1f67m55nY-8NYxrrwdi6YqPYQiFcasDwBaSV3yOybAMDOk1pXI4vFa1BmhHhUmyLf_bi9ZSUP2iv1a74LAZk2L56-7i8VN5hVSW9yUZwH7X87jVcyXWp5R7qcghv8-DsTT43jEOs4vtk2/s200/Winston+Reid+West+Ham+United+v+Blackpool+npower+lPPfOQGRqw3l.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Diame scores in West Ham's 3-1 win<br />over Chelsea in December.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Following promotion we had to strengthen our squad (obviously). Sam pulled the cash out of Mr Gold's pocket and made some brilliant signings. Diame, one of our best players so far this season. Matt Jarvis; a decent winger we craved. Carroll was then added so we had someone to nod Jarvis's headers into the back of the net ;). We also brought Yossi Benayoun back to Upton Park but he didn't make much of an impact.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So far in January he's brought Joe Cole home and signed a few strikers to add to our attack. Time will tell if these players turn out to be good acquisitions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Them signings aren't too bad are they, eh?</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdKcjEA694NhgOhqeJAxJvTrkoYgnSg5IxBQa5jWS5oYzwa0YgBX6ObFGWBRdpH9KbJeohw7W0RRPYjfeegbXcJWa-3bYfJZtSYux9QnAtRYZhsczDQgQr_tn8Tw0UCfOxBYE7kY7E_RWd/s1600/img-joe-cole-west-ham-1357558594_620_400_crop_articles-165516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdKcjEA694NhgOhqeJAxJvTrkoYgnSg5IxBQa5jWS5oYzwa0YgBX6ObFGWBRdpH9KbJeohw7W0RRPYjfeegbXcJWa-3bYfJZtSYux9QnAtRYZhsczDQgQr_tn8Tw0UCfOxBYE7kY7E_RWd/s200/img-joe-cole-west-ham-1357558594_620_400_crop_articles-165516.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Joe Cole during his second debut<br /> for West Ham United.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I believe that Sam Allardyce is the man to take us forward. He knows where we need to improve and he's setting out to do that. Once everyone is back and the new signings have settled in, we will once again be a team that clubs can fear. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The future is bright for our club. Come on you irons.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope you've enjoyed reading this article. Thanks for reading. Please give me feedback via Twitter or Email. Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/samwhufcfrancis" target="_blank">@samwhufcfrancis</a> - Email: sam11sf@live.co.uk</span>Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-75264318525935354522013-01-12T12:53:00.001+00:002013-01-12T12:57:29.958+00:00The West Ham Twitter World<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Twitter is the main way of communicating with fellow football fans now. So where are West Ham fans when they send a tweet?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is judged on Tweets sent with the hashtag <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23whufc&src=typd" target="_blank">#whufc</a></span><br />
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Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-35946733679508236102013-01-10T22:32:00.000+00:002013-01-13T02:58:13.911+00:00Paolo Di Canio's Thoughts Ahead Of West Ham's Replay Against Manchester United<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 26px; text-align: justify;">Here's what West Ham legend Paolo Di Canio had to say ahead of West Ham's clash against Manchester United next week.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 26px; text-align: justify;"> "I would love to see West Ham get a result at Manchester United in their FA Cup replay on Wednesday because it would be great to see their fans celebrating at Old Trafford again.</span><br />
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<a href="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/65193000/jpg/_65193022_dicanio11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img alt="Paolo Di Canio" border="0" height="111" src="http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/65193000/jpg/_65193022_dicanio11.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The game will bring back very good memories for me because I scored the winning goal there for West Ham, also in the FA Cup in 2001, when Manchester United goalkeeper Fabien Barthez stood with his hand in the air, claiming I was offside.</span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He tried to stop me and confuse me by putting his hand up like directors do in theatre when actors are auditioning, but my view in life is always to act first, then discuss the consequences.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I brought this into my football career, so my only thought at the time was to put the ball in the net and then check what the linesman was doing.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of my team-mates in that game was Joe Cole, and I am delighted to see he has gone back to West Ham.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I played alongside Roberto Baggio. For me, Cole was as good as him at 16. He was an amazing talent and the fact he did very well at West Ham and moved to Chelsea proved that he was a very good player.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He was one of the most talented players at West Ham and the fact his development was while I was there I am sure helped him."</span></span></div>
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<br />Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-83001797374271827452013-01-10T20:52:00.001+00:002013-01-13T02:57:45.761+00:00An Away Days Rip Off?<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ticket prices are at an all time high now. And with players wages rising, ticket prices are only going to get higher. This spells more misery for away fans who are simply paying too much to watch their team play away.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Premier League is set to encourage clubs to bring in new incentives to encourage away fans but will not intervene directly over ticket prices.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There have been calls for a cap on the amounts clubs are charging away fans; especially for profile matches such as the Manchester Derby and the Merseyside derby. But the league insists tickets are a matter for individual clubs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Premier League chiefs are aware of the need for strong away support at grounds in order to maintain the atmosphere of the top flight, one of its strengths compared to others in Italy and Spain.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">According to The Premier League, the average away attendance has remained about same (2,200) for the last three seasons. The Premier League will focus on incentives to make clubs consider putting away tickets on sale, and possibly subsiding coach travel. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The issue of prices resurfaced after Manchester City returned 912 unsold tickets to Arsenal. Away tickets were priced at £62 for this weekend's match between the clubs at the Emirates. The FSF (Football Supporters Federation) has called on top flight clubs to benefit next season's massive new TV deal by reducing ticket prices for fans.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The FSF claims that it is unfair that clubs such as Arsenal should charge away fans from rival clubs more than clubs that arent their rivals. For example, Stoke fans will only have to pay £35.50, £26.50 less than Manchester City fans have been charged. Various other football supporters groups have called for a cap of £20-£25 for away fans' tickets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A Premier League spokesman said: "Ticket pricing is a matter for individual clubs, many of which work hard to fill their stadiums with offers at different points during a season that make top flight football accessible to large numbers of fans. We have always encouraged stretch pricing to help accessibility and it is against Premier League rules to charge away fans more than home fans for the same standard of seats."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"The quality and safety of stadia is as a result of extensive and continued investment from the clubs. Fans clearly enjoy the environment in which they watch Premier League matches and the football on offer with occupancy rates at grounds tracking at 95% for this season and having been 90% plus for the last 15 seasons in a row."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Duncan Drasdo, spokesman for the Manchester United Supporters' Trust, warned that falling away attendances could spell trouble for the league.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He said: "There is a genuine issue with declining away attendances - away support is one of the things that makes English football stand out from the often drab atmosphere in other leagues such as Serie A in Italy. The discrepancy impacts on some clubs more than others - Manchester City fans aren't rich just because its owner is. It's a blatant injustice."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So what do you think? What price bracket do you think away tickets should be in? I want to know! Tweet/Email me. Twitter: @samwhufcfrancis - Email: sam11sf@live.co.uk</span>Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-78104664528322199482013-01-10T16:47:00.003+00:002013-01-10T17:07:49.223+00:00News- Martin Olsson<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Manager Sam Allardyce has revealed that West Ham are still locked in negotiations with Blackburn Rovers as they look to thrash out a deal for defender Martin Olsson.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoMhKTyiVcOy-Km0zQBxEVf3fFQxb6qQQbMcUQ_K0-2TGpO6N4IFxSzge-7quQTbPMcXlC_VeI6lEKsLXEONB30N3auZHT8Yy-t5bKT4FlA-xO8Yedvwzvgb2v_6K300XLpJLgwHITTeC/s1600/Martin-Olsson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoMhKTyiVcOy-Km0zQBxEVf3fFQxb6qQQbMcUQ_K0-2TGpO6N4IFxSzge-7quQTbPMcXlC_VeI6lEKsLXEONB30N3auZHT8Yy-t5bKT4FlA-xO8Yedvwzvgb2v_6K300XLpJLgwHITTeC/s200/Martin-Olsson.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Blackburn reportedly rejected the Hammers’ initial £2 million offer for the 24-year-old Sweden international but Allardyce says talks are ongoing with the Championship club.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Allardyce worked with full back Olsson during his time at Ewood Park and admits a left sided defender is his top priority after injuries to Joey O’Brien and George McCartney.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Allardyce was forced to start 18-year-old academy product Dan Potts in Sunday’s 2-2 FA Cup draw with Manchester United having recalled the youngster from loan at Colchester United.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Quizzed on reports that Blackburn are asking for £7 million for Olsson, Allardyce said: "I don’t think that’s true, no, but we have made an enquiry. Ongoing negotiations at the moment."</span></span><br />
Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-53312794163290623482013-01-10T16:40:00.000+00:002013-01-10T21:04:54.603+00:00News- Andy Carroll's Injury Situation<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">Injured Liverpool loanee Andy Carroll is two weeks away from his West Ham comeback, manager Sam Allardyce has revealed.</span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 17px;"> The 24-year-old, who is on a season-long loan at Upton Park, has been sidelined since twisting his knee in West Ham’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester United back in November.</span></span><br />
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</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEita6KQjAKOxZ4emfFXm0nC0kzwhA6FuZXlJUles2taC_Uk4L68ZuLpCF9oRZ-Rn1kOnU7-bv9GHBRtxVn5zWKeyVJWVK4L3xEsMQrGy4UdOllbc2DpKSCVPHZDEOZBAg6NGY2OGyu_edt4/s1600/Andy-Carroll-008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEita6KQjAKOxZ4emfFXm0nC0kzwhA6FuZXlJUles2taC_Uk4L68ZuLpCF9oRZ-Rn1kOnU7-bv9GHBRtxVn5zWKeyVJWVK4L3xEsMQrGy4UdOllbc2DpKSCVPHZDEOZBAg6NGY2OGyu_edt4/s200/Andy-Carroll-008.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">West Ham have bolstered their attacking options with the loan signing of Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh in Carroll’s absence, but the England star’s return will be a big boost for the Hammers.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">Carroll is back in light training as he works towards a return to action before the end of the month.</span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 17px;">"It’s a bit difficult to put an actual time on it but I would expect it will be no longer than a couple of weeks now" said the West Ham boss. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">"He’s doing some straight-line running, he’s been doing that for a few days." </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">"If he doesn’t feel anything then we’ll progress onto interval running and changes of direction, then introduce the ball, then hopefully come back with the players as soon as possible."</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 17px;">"It could be a few days. It could be a bit longer than that just depending on his progression day by day now."</span></span>Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-27659965142555612962013-01-07T20:32:00.002+00:002013-01-07T20:40:08.474+00:00An Announcement<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm now back at school after two weeks off. Because of homework and revising etc, the number of articles that I post will go down. Im currently in year 10; a crucial stage at school with my GCSE exams only 12 months away. If I don't do well in my GCSE's, the chances of me fulfilling the ambitions I have in life are zero. I will try and dedicate my weekends to football articles but I have to have a social life aswell. I don't want to rush any articles that I write as I know if I do, the standard of my work will go down.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thankyou.</span></div>
Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-12759040713098883992013-01-06T03:38:00.000+00:002013-01-13T02:59:23.633+00:00West Ham United vs Manchester United: Match Report.<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Teams:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">West Ham United- Jaaskelainen, Demel, Collins, Tomkins, Potts, Diarra, Nolan, Collison, Joe Cole, Vaz Te, C.Cole.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Subs- Spiegel, Reid, Jarvis, Taylor, Noble, Spence, Lee.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Manchester United- De Gea, Rafael, Evans, Smalling, Buttner, Vidic, Scholes, Cleverley, Kagawa, Welbeck, Hernandez. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Subs- Lindegaard, Ferdinand, Valencia, Giggs, Young, Van Persie, Macheda.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the opening stages of the match, Manchester United dominated. West Ham barely got a touch of the ball in the first 5 minutes. However The Hammers gradually started working their way into the match; Carlton Cole forcing Paul Scholes to clear his header off the line after the 29 year old connected with an in-swinging corner from Jack Collison. After 20 minutes the match was fairly even.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Two minutes later Manchester United struck the first blow. Javier Hernandez setting up Tom Cleverley for the goal. The lead didn't last for long. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just over four and a half minutes later, Joe Cole, on his second debut for West Ham, whipped in a cross; a cross which was met by James Collins' head. The Welsh international scoring his first goal since his move back to West Ham after a three year spell at Aston Villa.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">West Ham were buzzing after equalising and continued to put pressure on the 11 times FA Cup winners. West Ham could not turn the pressure into a goal and at half time the scores were square.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Half Time: West Ham United 1-1 Manchester United.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The second half started fairly evenly with both sides coming close. However, it was West Ham who struck first. In the 58th minute Jack Collison curled a corner in which eventually fell to Joe Cole who was the left hand side. 18 yards out, Cole swung in a fantastic cross which James Collins converted to score his second goal of the game, again, with his head. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That goal forced Alex Ferguson to take drastic action. First, Robin Van Persie replaced Javier Hernandez, then Paul Scholes made way for Antonio Valencia. Van Persie nearly made an instant impact, coming close at the near post from an Alexander Buttner corner. Manchester United looked a lot more threatening after Van Persie and Valencia came on. West Ham managed to survive the onslaught. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Joe Cole's second debut for West Ham ended in the 77th minute. The West Ham academy product strolled off the pitch to a standing ovation from the West Ham faithful. After leaving West Ham in 2003, Cole went on to make 184 appearances for Chelsea, winning 10 trophies (3 Premier League titles, 3 FA Cups, 2 League Cups & 2 Community Shields) before moving to Liverpool where he didnt have as much success. Fellow Englishman, Matt Taylor, replaced him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">West Ham had a bit more possession for the next 5 minutes before Manchester United seized control again. The Hammers looked to have held on for a fantastic win and an FA Cup shock. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However in the 90th minute Robin Van Persie struck to pull the game level in the dying moments of the game. A cool finish swept the ball past West Ham goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and into the back of the net. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The goal means that West Ham and Manchester United will have to do it all again on Wednesday 16th January at Old Trafford.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Full Time: West Ham United 2-2 Manchester United.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My Man Of The Match: James Collins.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Star Players: James Collins, Joe Cole, Dan Potts, Alexander Buttner, Tom Cleverley, Robin Van Persie.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">West Ham United player ratings:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">West Ham substitutions that came on- Noble-7.7, Jarvis- 7.3, Taylor- 7.0</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Manchester United player ratings-</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Manchester United substitutions that came on- </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Giggs- 7.0, Valencia- 7.4, Van Persie- 9.3</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My team of the match:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3cUwAFGsM7BI9evZbzw0mNCuhyO-20C5z5psma1zXGBdtT6Oi4PHsdnjufmce8K4wvAcmThY1m_PpvYpDJ9_Pco-hXHimUlWm2SvyhLNwsGMq2BnG_e1rwEIBsGFMnhZMNY0vfaMI04gG/s1600/2GEVA+TEAM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3cUwAFGsM7BI9evZbzw0mNCuhyO-20C5z5psma1zXGBdtT6Oi4PHsdnjufmce8K4wvAcmThY1m_PpvYpDJ9_Pco-hXHimUlWm2SvyhLNwsGMq2BnG_e1rwEIBsGFMnhZMNY0vfaMI04gG/s320/2GEVA+TEAM.jpg" width="197" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Statistics- (West Ham United:Manchester United)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Possession- 41%:59%</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shots- 15:12</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On Target- 7:6</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Corners- 4:5</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fouls- 5:13</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yellow Cards: 1:2</span><br />
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Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-16933964556076965372013-01-05T17:11:00.001+00:002013-01-06T01:04:32.698+00:00West Ham vs Man United- The teams.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">West Ham United team to play Manchester United- Jaaskelainen, Demel, Collins, Tomkins, Potts, Diarra, Nolan, Collison, Joe Cole, Vaz Te, C.Cole.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Subs- Spiegel, Reid, Jarvis, Taylor, Noble, Spence, Lee.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My Big Sam has set out a fairly strong side. Reid, Noble, O'Brien, Jarvis are rested for the game. I'm just going to pray that we get no injuries. Diarra has the chance to prove himself. Its also great to see Joe Cole making his second debut.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Manchester United- De Gea, Rafael, Evans, Smalling, Buttner, Vidic, Scholes, Cleverley, Kagawa, Welbeck, Hernandez. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Subs- Lindegaard, Ferdinand, Valencia, Giggs, Young, Van Persie, Macheda.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I got 6 out of 11 right! If your wondering what im on about, check my Man United squad prediction by <a href="http://samfootyblog.blogspot.com/2013/01/west-ham-united-vs-manchester-united.html?spref=tw" target="_blank">clicking on this link</a>. Ferguson has set out a very strong side. I still stick by my prediction of 3-1. </span><br />
<br />Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-18999573969564875212013-01-05T14:22:00.000+00:002013-01-05T14:35:12.320+00:00West Ham United vs Manchester United: Match Preview<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">West Ham United vs Manchester United:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today, West Ham United welcome Manchester United to Upton Park in their third round FA Cup fixture. Here's a little look into the tie.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will start with the home team, West Ham.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After picking up 4 points out of a possible 15 in December, West Ham started 2013 with a 2-1 win over Norwich. A win today would boost confidence and team morale. It will be interesting to see what kind of side Big Sam puts out. I would like to see a few first team players put in the squad, mixed with our youngsters.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's the team that I would like to see West Ham field.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikqsaAsQqqRwPPZFokzzrGFwLpgcDYzeoJ4nPYDndi5EwGpPBRovBmmssVLlAfNYbg63pgisDxVwpzXGhdpPP_whf0k3E06Q6XV7-KQQ6wIdBSajWppIMHJ-DZi8M4pszZ5GWO6N-bZEj1/s1600/611056_Fifa_Team.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikqsaAsQqqRwPPZFokzzrGFwLpgcDYzeoJ4nPYDndi5EwGpPBRovBmmssVLlAfNYbg63pgisDxVwpzXGhdpPP_whf0k3E06Q6XV7-KQQ6wIdBSajWppIMHJ-DZi8M4pszZ5GWO6N-bZEj1/s400/611056_Fifa_Team.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tomkins isnt getting much game time; neither is O'Neill with Collison coming back. I think Vaz Te will come off the bench in the last half an hour as he is gradually returning from injury. I see today as a chance for our youngsters to show off their talent.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Moving on to the away side...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Manchester United:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Manchester United are currently on a 10 game unbeaten run (ncludes all competitions), their last defeat was a 1-0 loss to Galatasaray at Old Trafford on the 20th November 2012. Since then they've won 7 of their 8 Premier League games. In the 2012-13 Premier League only Everton, Tottenham and Norwich have beaten them and were 21 games into the season. I can see Alex Ferguson setting out a very strong side, with a few reserves in the mix. Here's what I think Manchester United's starting XI will look like.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVTytbMpt8C5-_Tdm_zIADpQ0K1jVNfL9HQgfSX6zNEaSKcmyijtOjHHYIE1STkclbl0GCbrWMekhPOOP6ffqSNu0dfb_N53cJUNUkTAbdblOmenlQy58GfFAR0hTtWuSeqGzSR-dTUx9/s1600/611038_Fifa_Team+mufc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimVTytbMpt8C5-_Tdm_zIADpQ0K1jVNfL9HQgfSX6zNEaSKcmyijtOjHHYIE1STkclbl0GCbrWMekhPOOP6ffqSNu0dfb_N53cJUNUkTAbdblOmenlQy58GfFAR0hTtWuSeqGzSR-dTUx9/s400/611038_Fifa_Team+mufc.jpg" width="246" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A mix of youth and experience. In this team, goals can come from all around the pitch. If Manchester United need a goal, I reckon' Van Persie and Valencia will be brought on. Them two players can change a game with one moment of magic. Even with this starting XI, there's quality all over the pitch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Match Prediction:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">West Ham United 1-3 Manchester United. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I never get any predictions correct so this is pointless but its still worth putting here incase I get it right ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The game is LIVE on ITV1; Kick off is at 17:15. If you are going to the match, I wish you a safe journey too and from the stadium.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As always, thanks for reading. If you would like to suggest a topic that I can write something about, send me a tweet or an email and I will consider it. Twitter: @samwhufcfrancis - Email: sam11sf@live.co.uk</span>Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-26678171374091806242013-01-05T03:57:00.001+00:002013-01-05T17:05:12.869+00:00This Weekend's FA Cup Fixtures<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All kicks offs are 3pm unless stated:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Brighton v Newcastle (12:30)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aldershot v Rotherham<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aston Villa v Ipswich<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Barnsley v Burnley<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Blackburn v Bristol City<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bolton v Sunderland</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Crystal Palace v Stoke<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Derby v Tranmere<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fulham v Blackpool<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hull v Leyton Orient<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Leeds United v Birmingham<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-bQ-biXS_AEJtZBY2cDjaqN8J8BuV2yKKOGMVySJaxDRTlwox5wMYDJpO56syGgxBXjrVe-0IufU6cveadL7OuUKAqZBUtJYw5VFIgg7lI34Ts8gwiJcAK3QNCdPvZsyRBHlAFTfbWKOR/s1600/FACup_Budweiser_onpitch+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-bQ-biXS_AEJtZBY2cDjaqN8J8BuV2yKKOGMVySJaxDRTlwox5wMYDJpO56syGgxBXjrVe-0IufU6cveadL7OuUKAqZBUtJYw5VFIgg7lI34Ts8gwiJcAK3QNCdPvZsyRBHlAFTfbWKOR/s200/FACup_Budweiser_onpitch+(1).jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Leicester v Burton Albion<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luton v Wolves<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Macclesfield v Cardiff<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Man City v Watford<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Middlesbrough v Hastings Utd<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Millwall v Preston<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nottm Forest v Oldham<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Peterborough v Norwich<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">QPR v West Brom<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sheff Wed v MK Dons<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Southampton v Chelsea<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Southend v Brentford<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tottenham v Coventry<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wigan v Bournemouth<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">West Ham v Man Utd (17:15)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tomorrow:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Swansea v Arsenal (13:30)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mansfield v Liverpool (16:00)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Monday:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cheltenham v Everton (19:45)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Potential shocks: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Brighton win against Newcastle at the Amex.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ipswich win away at Villa.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Macclesfield beat Cardiff.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isthmian Premier League side Hastings United get a draw/win away to Middlesbrough.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luton win at home to Wolves.</span>Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-47567277696717603692013-01-05T01:57:00.000+00:002013-01-05T01:57:23.147+00:00West Ham United: Our Defence.<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Basically, I'm about to moan about our defence. I don't moan all the way through. Excuse me if it isn't structured very well, I just wanted to let all my feelings out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First of all I would like to know why Sam Allardyce starts James Collins instead of James Tomkins. I have a number of reason's why Tomkins should start instead of Collins:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1- James Tomkins is reliable. I don't think Collins is.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2- James Collins has cost us at least 9 points already this season. If Tomkins had played the same amount of games as Collins that figure would be lower and that's a fact.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3- When Tomkins plays, he passes it around the defence and into the midfield. Collins hoofs it up field which leads to us losing possession By the time we get it back, we'll be getting the game back underway after conceding a goal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4- Tomkins gets forward and scores. Collins doesn't.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5- The only decent thing about Collins is that he's good at blocking shots. Tomkins can do more things and can do them things better than Collins.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Possible new defensive arrivals:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Danny Simpson (Right back)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stephen Warnock (Left back)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Martin Olsson (Left back)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Douglas (Centre back)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The full backs are not a problem but Douglas is. If he came in, we would have four centre backs. Four centre backs capable of being in the Starting XI. Having four centre backs would mean that one of them would have to go out on loan or even on a permanent so they can play football. I fear that out of Collins, Tomkins and Reid; Tomkins will be the one sold. Reid obviously won't be sold as he's our best defender but Tomkins might as Allardyce prefers Collins. Very few people, if any, would agree with the decision to sell/loan Tomkins. Hopefully fan power would stop that happening if the situation come around. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Im going to stop moaning for a minute and give credit to Winston Reid. The New Zealander was amazing last season and has taken the step up to the Premier League in his stride. He is so underrated its unreal and I feel that he deserves more credit from the football world. He's currently 24. I hope that in 15 years he is still doing his amazing work in our defence. With James Tomkins of course ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Moving on...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is what I would like to see happen this month. This only concerns our defence and the defensive players that we have been linked with so far. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IN: Stephen Warnock, Martin Olsson & Danny Simpson. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Why?- This would give Big Sam a bit more choice at the back. We will have O'Brien, McCartney, Demel, Warnock, Olsson & Simpson as full back options. This means that we would have plenty of competition for the two full back positions. Therefore 6 of them perform better as they know if they under perform in a match they will be warming the bench. I wouldn't mind seeing Demel and McCartney leave if I was honest. The only good thing I see in Demel is his strength and McCartney would be outshone by the new arrivals. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">OUT: James Collins.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If we signed Douglas I would like to see James Collins leave. I do not rate Collins at all as you've probably realised by now. We would be getting rid of a defender that is prone to making mistakes. Four centre backs would also be too many unless one got injured. Id like to see Collins leave on a loan so if one of our centre backs got injured we could recall him. I've already mentioned half of this, I just felt the need to repeat it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">IN: Douglas.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Douglas sounds like a fantastic defender. He's tall and looks very strong. He's also 24, 5 years younger than Collins. I haven't got much more to say about him as I've never seen him play. I hadn't even heard of him before rumours of him joining us surfaced.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is how I would like to see our defence look after the January Transfer Window.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Left Back- Olsson.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Centre Back- Tomkins</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Centre Back- Reid</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Right Back- Simpson/O'Brien (The competition between them two for that place would be interesting!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rant over.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sorry if this piece of work was a complete mess. I was just expressing my opinion. I understand that many of you will disagree with what I've said but I'm not bothered about gaining friends by going along with what everyone else says; id rather express my opinions, not bothering about gaining any friends from it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thanks for reading. I want to know YOUR thoughts on this matter so please get in contact with me. Twitter: @samwhufcfrancis - Email: sam11sf@live.co.uk</span><br />
Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-24716601898991783442013-01-04T23:03:00.001+00:002013-01-04T23:05:43.883+00:00West Ham Rumours (4/1/13) - My Thoughts<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's a few rumours that I've heard today.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfExQpFT6DJxw6sqD0YZPEnRAjVUXCfaufi7_hoAcOzIgY-Su7HSQf3wCxS-VEyyFbAvdFCnOLDKUeY-GmmDDRD_ptMYF3oHSF91pmiHHbnmMmYxf5Wo-eCEEDh_awT2QI0EtNBrMyxdkY/s1600/Martin-Olsson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfExQpFT6DJxw6sqD0YZPEnRAjVUXCfaufi7_hoAcOzIgY-Su7HSQf3wCxS-VEyyFbAvdFCnOLDKUeY-GmmDDRD_ptMYF3oHSF91pmiHHbnmMmYxf5Wo-eCEEDh_awT2QI0EtNBrMyxdkY/s200/Martin-Olsson.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Martin Olsson</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Player Profile-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Age: 24</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Position(s): Left Back/Left Wing</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nationality: Sweden</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Current club: Blackburn</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Previous club(s): Hogaborgs BK (youth)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">International appearances & (goals): 14 (4)</span><br />
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My opinion- Martin Olsson would be an excellent addition to our squad. The Swede is a left back who likes to attack. I can see him and Jarvis linking up well down the left. Olsson is also very quick so would have the pace to get back if he pushes forward. Our team currently lacks pace, the only players i'd say are quick are Jarvis and Maiga. Sam Allarydce worked with Olsson in his time at Blackburn. The opportunity of Premier League football could convince Olsson to leave Blackburn and come to Upton Park.</span><br />
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Douglas</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccvkmSX0RGRJC2fXuB5sQQWHWG-AA71__Dh4il475UCU9nMVXBiAJNJoXIImW7AP02NXiOqKggm987_zn1zAM6lbKNII48rGWoTYMp_DxZ7m5TPLKWk9DI6Jq_orKSLDNt92soubEUk3G/s1600/Douglas-Franco-Teixeira.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccvkmSX0RGRJC2fXuB5sQQWHWG-AA71__Dh4il475UCU9nMVXBiAJNJoXIImW7AP02NXiOqKggm987_zn1zAM6lbKNII48rGWoTYMp_DxZ7m5TPLKWk9DI6Jq_orKSLDNt92soubEUk3G/s200/Douglas-Franco-Teixeira.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Player Profile-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Age: 24</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Position(s): Centre back</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nationality: Brazil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Current club: FC Twente</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Previous club(s): Joinville</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">International appearances & (goals): 0 (0)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My opinion- I haven't heard of Douglas before but from what I've read he sounds like a good player. Standing tall at 6 ft 4, the centre back would dominate in the air and would be a big figure in our back line. Furthermore, he would stiffen our defence up a bit. However, there is a problem that I have forgotten to highlight in previous articles. Currently James Tomkins is not playing regularly as Sam Allardyce prefers to play James Collins instead. I disagree with this decision personally but I will save that rant for another day. With James Tomkins not playing regularly he could consider leaving; I don't even want to think about Tomkins leaving us.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Out:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc5d-iAmSCWWtWZ11HC4UHpGNYh-CBRsFxmPFQveRJ1kF4IFmMQdPoA20fXGcyHY1qBThQGQTZjldUOXeHlK1XLWZ3rAX532harSIGtCxSAzKJJQgOAAELYlDC7wBK5um1_evo1VMIVAf7/s1600/tomkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc5d-iAmSCWWtWZ11HC4UHpGNYh-CBRsFxmPFQveRJ1kF4IFmMQdPoA20fXGcyHY1qBThQGQTZjldUOXeHlK1XLWZ3rAX532harSIGtCxSAzKJJQgOAAELYlDC7wBK5um1_evo1VMIVAf7/s200/tomkins.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">James Tomkins</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Player Profile- </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Age: 23</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Position(s): Centre Back</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nationality: English</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Previous club(s): Derby County (loan)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">International appearances & (goals): 0 (0)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When he joined West Ham: 1997</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Linked with: Newcastle (permanent)</span><br />
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My opinion- Even typing this hurts me. According to rumours James Tomkins would consider a move away from Upton Park if he doesn't start playing regularly. I'm not even going to go any further now as the possibility of Tomkins leaving saddens me.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Modibo Maiga (loan)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Player Profile- </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVZfHLW08G_fuvyuxFRrnnDLSSZCQ93uf2AgwtubVeWICjrN-6Aye1-6nuQlra7tn5g5UNpNl8loXVdhoej5nT4xPtbO5cbedsNQUxL83eEFQ7d7UgAXy_ZoilHdBTLv5h3nWhQLKzfRF/s1600/maiga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVZfHLW08G_fuvyuxFRrnnDLSSZCQ93uf2AgwtubVeWICjrN-6Aye1-6nuQlra7tn5g5UNpNl8loXVdhoej5nT4xPtbO5cbedsNQUxL83eEFQ7d7UgAXy_ZoilHdBTLv5h3nWhQLKzfRF/s200/maiga.jpg" width="141" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Age: 25 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Position: Striker/Winger</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nationality: Malian</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Previous club(s): Stade Malien, Raja Casablanca, Le Mans, Sochaux </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">International appearances & (goals): 31 (5)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When he joined West Ham: Summer 2012</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Linked with: Marseille (loan), Newcastle (loan/permanent)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My opinion- Rumours are going around that Newcastle are interested in Modibo Maiga. I'm not going to go too far into this as I mentioned it yesterday. All I'm going to say is that a loan move would suit Maiga as I don't want to bore people who read yesterday's version of this article. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thanks for reading. Please give me feedback by Tweeting or Emailing me. Twitter: @samwhufcfrancis - Email: sam11sf@live.co.uk</span>Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-71203410897049683422013-01-04T00:53:00.001+00:002013-01-04T03:11:20.824+00:00Fans Thoughts On Maguire's Move To West Ham United<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Earlier, I asked my Twitter followers what they think of the arrival of Sean Maguire. Here's what they had to say:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Good to see Allardyce investing in youth, just needs to start playing the likes of him and Rob Hall to expand. Their potential to the full, good signing and hoppe he gets a good chance.to prove himself to us. - @James_WHUFC (West Ham fan)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Could be a top player, but not yet. Give it a few seasons first, we've got a record of producing quality youth players and he's rated highly. Hopefully we can keep him! - @RyanWebster6 (West Ham fan)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I know Seani well, Hes a small quick skillful forward with great movement and an eye for goal. He was our top scorer last season. - @Jayoconnor8 (An Irish West Ham fan who watches Waterford occasionally)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Quick feet,explosive turn of pace,eyes only for goal, stronger than he looks. - @HannaBergkamp (Waterford United fan)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He seems like a very good player. A player that is very highly rated and as he's impressed on trial, one that could well feature in the near future. Everyone that has spoke about him, has praised him very highly. I'm very excited to see what he can do and pray he doesn't turn out to be another Sam Baldock, which I fear most. - @AranRyanNichol94 (West Ham fan)</span><br />
Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-91070656063721018902013-01-03T23:28:00.002+00:002013-01-04T23:04:06.056+00:00West Ham Rumours (3/1/13) - My Thoughts<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's a few rumours that I've heard today.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6qecg3CtAAvvcMoQ4PtATIhPC1gq05oFdjXcegiUmb95q_JodIr92gzYEwA_r0-lR3pXCkLKC8zGJmzGDKDiAzQvL8-PgVTXuKtSBUl2e8fc56u_Fsu8_tA6wD8vQrh2Q6Df3QNjDUiNC/s1600/chamakh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6qecg3CtAAvvcMoQ4PtATIhPC1gq05oFdjXcegiUmb95q_JodIr92gzYEwA_r0-lR3pXCkLKC8zGJmzGDKDiAzQvL8-PgVTXuKtSBUl2e8fc56u_Fsu8_tA6wD8vQrh2Q6Df3QNjDUiNC/s200/chamakh.jpg" width="199" /></span></a><span style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Marouane Chamakh (loan) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Player Profile-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Age: 28</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Position: Striker </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nationality: Born in France, but represents Morocco internationally</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Current club: Arsenal</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Previous club(s): Bordeaux.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">International appearances & (goals): 61 (7)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My opinion- I think Chamakh will either be a great signing or a flop. I think a loan move with the option to buy would be a sensible move so if he turns out to be a great signing we can buy him and if he's a flop we can send him back to Arsenal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Danny Simpson (permanent) </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJkgjzSX4xIPtNfHf1UbhUkj_cvc6Ilrra5XKpe9XSy1kJaU9OBTODejaLcJCMUgHg-DDHx2-HIVPIT2vGJvqyTMV8_rU5TSpoMq798M9vYsDx_gWE2i6BJ6E3PA0NDBL-LERABtlbn0_/s1600/dannysimpson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUJkgjzSX4xIPtNfHf1UbhUkj_cvc6Ilrra5XKpe9XSy1kJaU9OBTODejaLcJCMUgHg-DDHx2-HIVPIT2vGJvqyTMV8_rU5TSpoMq798M9vYsDx_gWE2i6BJ6E3PA0NDBL-LERABtlbn0_/s200/dannysimpson.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Player Profile-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Age: 25</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Position: Right back</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nationality: English</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Current club: Newcastle United</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Previous club(s): Manchester United, Royal Antwerp (loan), Sunderland (loan), Ipswich (loan), Blackburn (loan), Newcastle United (loan)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">International appearances & (goals): 0 (0)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My opinion- I mentioned this player in the article I wrote named <a href="http://samfootyblog.blogspot.com/2012/12/west-ham-united-transfers-id-like-to.html?spref=tw" target="_blank">West Ham Ins And Outs Id Like To See In January</a>. I would love to see Simpson grace the turf at Upton Park in a West Ham shirt. Hopefully this deal materializes and the right back makes the move down South.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stephen Warnock (permanent) </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55KeAFnPx9A7cG9qh7U_5SbnHJSSTNhKxTfR65ADXbgPK3W7TlqY4B20ObGr0Dd01apHe3QtvtWIP0mchs0GeG6oVqLKPMcS-Sm5HrcQC1sNwXjwtuJC99tOWJXlE9ctM8Z6VhUzN575l/s1600/stephen+warnock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi55KeAFnPx9A7cG9qh7U_5SbnHJSSTNhKxTfR65ADXbgPK3W7TlqY4B20ObGr0Dd01apHe3QtvtWIP0mchs0GeG6oVqLKPMcS-Sm5HrcQC1sNwXjwtuJC99tOWJXlE9ctM8Z6VhUzN575l/s200/stephen+warnock.jpg" width="200" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Player Profile-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Age: 31 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Position: Left back</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nationality: English </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Current club: Aston Villa but has spent the first half of the 2012-13 season on loan at Bolton</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Previous club(s): Liverpool, Bradford (loan), Coventry (loan), Blackburn</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">International appearances & (goals): 2 (0)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My opinion- I've seen Stephen play for Villa before and I was impressed by his performance. I think he's a solid left back who regularly puts in good performances. I can see this being a wise move from Big Sam. I didn't see this move coming at all; a welcome surprise I suppose.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM84suZC5tn0dbCMttABOCS6hLrX8QpWWcKcByD9hZUVANAlg970JpwZfMPaFO6jVv1gPDh3K9wvn2w6En7BDC65IU5-ORytjg3nGwc93GUNzR7o_bEl0Xre5Rh-tw1G4czkMdPKwqlYu-/s1600/maiga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM84suZC5tn0dbCMttABOCS6hLrX8QpWWcKcByD9hZUVANAlg970JpwZfMPaFO6jVv1gPDh3K9wvn2w6En7BDC65IU5-ORytjg3nGwc93GUNzR7o_bEl0Xre5Rh-tw1G4czkMdPKwqlYu-/s200/maiga.jpg" width="141" /></span></a><span style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Out:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Maiga (loan)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Player Profile-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Age: 25 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Position: Striker/Winger</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nationality: Malian</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Previous club(s): Stade Malien, Raja Casablanca, Le Mans, Sochaux </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">International appearances & (goals): 31 (5)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When he joined West Ham: Summer 2012</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Linked with: Marseille (loan)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My opinion- I mentioned in my article <a href="http://samfootyblog.blogspot.com/2012/12/west-ham-united-transfers-id-like-to.html?spref=tw" target="_blank">West Ham Ins And Outs Id Like To See In January</a> that I would like to see him go out on loan to get some more game time then come back in the summer. I still think that this would be a wise move so I would like to see it happen.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So that's the players that I have heard about us being linked to today. If there are any more rumors about players joining/leaving us tomorrow I will be back with another article similar to this, tomorrow. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thanks for reading. Feel free to give me feedback by Tweeting or Emailing me. Twitter: @samwhufcfrancis - Email: sam11sf@live.co.uk</span>Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-90253419722770452542013-01-03T20:55:00.000+00:002013-01-03T20:55:21.309+00:00Sean Maguire- My Opinion.<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sean Maguire-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Age: 18</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Height: 5 ft 9</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Previous club(s): Waterford United</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nationality: Republic Of Ireland</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Made his debut for Republic of Ireland U19's in September 2012</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My opinion:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">From what I've read, Sean Maguire sounds like an excellent young player who is full of potential. Now he's at West Ham our youth coaches will help him make big strides forward; in the right direction. Since he's only 18 he still has another 20 years ahead of him. I hope that in 4-5 years we will see him in our first team, fulfilling his potential. If he does become a major talent we need to do everything we can to keep hold of him. Hopefully today is the day that he starts a long, successful career at West Ham. </span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLEZ0do1Jr7q1fg-SaT_IwL8fCI6aSNDcslQ7XYwlvIdEyWKLUtDUtEvloMsV3bR3c7UtyJ1ZDo9QSExd1lOpWSr6K47QrHe5asOj84BWSJGX-GLfEXGmqEl9tX_f5KofP_HKOje_mZOw/s1600/seanmaguire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLEZ0do1Jr7q1fg-SaT_IwL8fCI6aSNDcslQ7XYwlvIdEyWKLUtDUtEvloMsV3bR3c7UtyJ1ZDo9QSExd1lOpWSr6K47QrHe5asOj84BWSJGX-GLfEXGmqEl9tX_f5KofP_HKOje_mZOw/s320/seanmaguire.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean Maguire (blue) playing for Waterford United</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Maguire was out of contract at The Blues. Both clubs have agreed a compensation package for the Airtricity League side.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's what Sean had to say about his move to <b>West Ham United</b>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Here I am now at <b>West Ham</b> and it's a dream come true really. People tend to say my best trait is my movement so hopefully I can show that here. I haven't been told yet which squad I will be in but I presume I'll be going into the reserves so I'll try to work my way up like I did at Waterford."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Waterford's Chairman spoke positively about Maguire. Here's what he told BBC Sport:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Waterford chairman John O'Sullivan: "I'm a great fan of Lionel Messi at Barcelona. When I look at Seanie, he really reminds me of him.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"He added: "Seanie has the same kind of balance, burst of speed and he's powerful on the ball.""If Seanie keeps progressing the way he is, it won't be long before he's getting first team football at <b>West Ham</b>. There is no question whatsoever he will be a star one day for the Republic Of Ireland."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I want to know YOUR opinion on the signing of Sean Maguire. Tweet or Email me your opinion and I will put it on here! Twitter: @samwhufcfrancis - Email: sam11sf@live.co.uk</span><br />
Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-34621567017803908212013-01-02T21:29:00.002+00:002013-01-02T23:17:41.626+00:00Thank you.<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This time last week I created this blog and wrote my first article. I never would of thought that one week on this blog would have over 1300 pageviews and I would be writing for foreverwestham.com</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I would just like to say thank you all for your support. Hopefully 2013 will be successful year for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thankyou.</span></div>
Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-84607335512065266532013-01-02T05:41:00.002+00:002013-01-02T05:43:35.741+00:00My 2012-13 Premier League Team So Far<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Were now just over half way into the 2012/13 Premier League Season. Here's my team of the season so far.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Asmir Begovic (Stoke)- </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWXauwScb6kgfaxzFeQuB8M4TrLhIYoBemcUbKxDk9XtgE6ia_g_X1F76bex6caynTeOrJE1n0DnWIPA2TQMHLAT_W63qC9R_3-ETqvOaceqEbnoFHha_-on5AfamH77ULwN42dXFTi1DI/s1600/Goalkeeper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWXauwScb6kgfaxzFeQuB8M4TrLhIYoBemcUbKxDk9XtgE6ia_g_X1F76bex6caynTeOrJE1n0DnWIPA2TQMHLAT_W63qC9R_3-ETqvOaceqEbnoFHha_-on5AfamH77ULwN42dXFTi1DI/s200/Goalkeeper.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So far this season, Asmir Begovic has kept 9 clean sheets from the 21 Premier League game's that Stoke have played so far. This is quite impressive as Stoke aren't a team that are in and around the top 4. Begovic, 25, has also pulled out a number of match winning saves to earn Stoke precious points this season. With the help of the Bosnian, Stoke are currently sitting in 9th place.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Defence:</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyqVDsO0xIA-z6fmNBu6_1FRN1uBI6P9CUlYvkOCbXPsd4V3wTDXqe7zbkpTSfIcPHD1Ez_cggC4Z0f1HQmTSWSPuG3hlG1QWrY2YJUtFBpIBx2a2OKHI3opV6KCIHuUGGQhwfD54E2eIq/s1600/Left+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyqVDsO0xIA-z6fmNBu6_1FRN1uBI6P9CUlYvkOCbXPsd4V3wTDXqe7zbkpTSfIcPHD1Ez_cggC4Z0f1HQmTSWSPuG3hlG1QWrY2YJUtFBpIBx2a2OKHI3opV6KCIHuUGGQhwfD54E2eIq/s200/Left+back.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Leighton Banes (Everton)-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Leighton Baines has been one of the best players in the Premier League this season. Even a Liverpool fan would admit that. His link up play with Peinaar down the left has been sublime; not to mention his free kicks which have been simply class. So far, I think he's outshone fellow England left back Ashley Cole</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. Still at 28, he has around another 10 years left of his playing career. So could his best be yet to come?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ryan Shawcross (Stoke)-</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7WYvJr6giQmBBzHJHqgrHn2Uq8p-m0dVphWu4chVSUP-BUTexMkDRUNrIuD-5YDStDFhEmdsCmP8yVkPri25QQNY6vvmAIwiP3PJ74yMxf7AjJ6EW837km-Vp2ZwgHC0CHnOamsARuVY/s1600/Centre+Back+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7WYvJr6giQmBBzHJHqgrHn2Uq8p-m0dVphWu4chVSUP-BUTexMkDRUNrIuD-5YDStDFhEmdsCmP8yVkPri25QQNY6vvmAIwiP3PJ74yMxf7AjJ6EW837km-Vp2ZwgHC0CHnOamsARuVY/s200/Centre+Back+2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Im not a big fan of Stoke or Shawcross if i was honest. I think he deserves a place in my team though. He's a defender that will take no chances and will try and make sure the whole stadium can hear him when he's shouting instructions to his team mates. Shawcross is a tough tackling, hard working defender who will always put in 110%. The 25 year old would be up for an ariel duel with any big centre forward if needed. No wonder he's one of Tony Pulis's prized assets.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Vincent Kompany (Manchester City)-</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_FbIqxHpdQazryb7xeYhDSGtfCfbL6E7RYwu6nGdZpQxTqzR16THCGsE-dxA0oI1E6ivvaQ4iJJRNMgPQ1D5m3pERReDb8mI4fIfR7ODgqst-WM7tTgC04iGTDzlSk4lPbeVxA21UkB_n/s1600/Centre+Back+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_FbIqxHpdQazryb7xeYhDSGtfCfbL6E7RYwu6nGdZpQxTqzR16THCGsE-dxA0oI1E6ivvaQ4iJJRNMgPQ1D5m3pERReDb8mI4fIfR7ODgqst-WM7tTgC04iGTDzlSk4lPbeVxA21UkB_n/s200/Centre+Back+1.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Vincent Kompany is a born leader. At times he hold's Manchester City's defence together by himself. He's the kind of player any manager would pick as their captain; which is why he's mine. He's got all the attributes of a world class defender. He's also a great bloke off the pitch judging by what i've seen. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City)-</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAgx18q_iqlPGMb-uHxG0obVlqZI_cyl4h3gZz5VZMMv325esbvyvVg6HbE5bci0-oABhji0__2yCUD8IDAn9YUh30uKBkg9V0hs5CGKYzbtbZmfKCS5S-NYw7rgpmeTIlynfssai_lCIA/s1600/Right+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAgx18q_iqlPGMb-uHxG0obVlqZI_cyl4h3gZz5VZMMv325esbvyvVg6HbE5bci0-oABhji0__2yCUD8IDAn9YUh30uKBkg9V0hs5CGKYzbtbZmfKCS5S-NYw7rgpmeTIlynfssai_lCIA/s200/Right+back.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've always rated Zabaleta. I think he's one of the best right back's in the Premier League, hence the reason why he's in my team. The Argentine can either play at right back or at centre back (in a formation with 3 at the back). He can push forward really well like many other full back's around the world. What stands out for me is that he's as good as defending as he is attacking. Quite a lot of full back's like Rafael for example, are good at pushing forward but not as good when it comes to defending.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJNWnoH9FbI-rk3NdiHwkDsBTu8gnDn_1n5CKUo88TVmB9P8edCRPa5jwYhr0_IqqD0_56YH8w8m3xWhf8cREVQw5NceoA5c1NCINpngqcumg4FHFFG_RzwjfqCPqlAOK4bTWSUMVG9Oi2/s1600/Left+mid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJNWnoH9FbI-rk3NdiHwkDsBTu8gnDn_1n5CKUo88TVmB9P8edCRPa5jwYhr0_IqqD0_56YH8w8m3xWhf8cREVQw5NceoA5c1NCINpngqcumg4FHFFG_RzwjfqCPqlAOK4bTWSUMVG9Oi2/s200/Left+mid.jpg" width="136" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Midfield:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Gareth Bale (Tottenham)-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you exclude the diving, you cannot fault Gareth Bale. The Welsh Wizard is feared by many defenders around the world which isn't a big surprise really. His mazy runs and classy finishes make him one of the best wingers in the world. I just wish he would cut out the diving a bit. I wouldn't be shocked if a few big offers come in for him during the transfer window.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTh3d2S6dqif6q6TiR42ddzynUmrCjTua3xlH7YnvCiVTGp86TH_oO5kMCHcMM_aSi2nPfiFSA7Ap9Okp5Qisl6DIwnikRwtqNPXS-p5Rfihw2FDWYwRzOtOf9yP2reNQpPpvR5zwQCHp/s1600/Cdm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyTh3d2S6dqif6q6TiR42ddzynUmrCjTua3xlH7YnvCiVTGp86TH_oO5kMCHcMM_aSi2nPfiFSA7Ap9Okp5Qisl6DIwnikRwtqNPXS-p5Rfihw2FDWYwRzOtOf9yP2reNQpPpvR5zwQCHp/s200/Cdm.jpg" width="155" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mohamed Diame (West Ham United)-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Many people think that I should put Michael Carrick in this team instead of Diame. Some may feel that I am being a little bias with this decision but nevermind, you'll live. West Ham signed Diame for free from Wigan in the summer; what a bargain that has turned out to be. He's played a huge role in West Ham's season so far, with an amazing work rate, some great tackles a few goals. Without Diame, West Ham would be lower in the table than they currently are. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Marouane Fellaini (Everton)- </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEGF_sacOCWH7b6FS4w1xx9WYJn6ZysBdSzyx6WWThjho2dAgrIN4HLoyeslrmiNE3IBR1bpwkrSWtjLilfGutx1jXDsI4WBQCYbxh0N3-pLjgztoDbnAicCjjBpTZVAKpakT5qspg0MkY/s1600/Cam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEGF_sacOCWH7b6FS4w1xx9WYJn6ZysBdSzyx6WWThjho2dAgrIN4HLoyeslrmiNE3IBR1bpwkrSWtjLilfGutx1jXDsI4WBQCYbxh0N3-pLjgztoDbnAicCjjBpTZVAKpakT5qspg0MkY/s200/Cam.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Marouane Fellaini is simply class. Roaming around the pitch freely, playing sneaky balls through to the winger's and strikers; he controls Everton's midfield. The big Belgian is also excellent at holding the ball up; with a superb first touch, he makes it look easy. If Everton continue to play the way they currently are I can't see Fellaini leaving Goodison Park.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Juan Mata (Chelsea)- </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JiBeivCTP7zHjvYFofIwSweoXcGQWvMaSir4vAiKpjTlG043QR9CikDHaxd3Gywp-qoSw6PrE7TUkBLZmTOK-QD563gHlXD3LPn1dwS7pHaKQqwk9XYlwsIXxNj7QhCBfcp2NRfzaRWB/s1600/Right+mid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JiBeivCTP7zHjvYFofIwSweoXcGQWvMaSir4vAiKpjTlG043QR9CikDHaxd3Gywp-qoSw6PrE7TUkBLZmTOK-QD563gHlXD3LPn1dwS7pHaKQqwk9XYlwsIXxNj7QhCBfcp2NRfzaRWB/s200/Right+mid.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Since leaving Valencia to join Chelsea in the summer of 2011, Juan Mata has been influential for Chelsea; helping them win the Champions League back in May. He's been amazing this season too. Mata can play either as a winger or as a centre attacking midfielder. In either position, he can split a defence in half with one simple pass. The little Spaniard is also great on the ball and has a decent finish. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Strikers:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I narrowed down the striking options to Suarez, Michu, Van Persie and Aguero before I made my decision on the final two; so here they are.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Robin Van Persie (Manchester United)-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The first striker ive gone for is Robin Van Persie. He could of easily done a Fernando Torres (Move from one rival to another and stop scoring as many goals). But he didnt- he literally cannot stop scoring for Manchester United. The £20 million spent on him is quickly being repaid. The argument now is, who has the better four? City (Aguero, Tevez, Dzeko & Balotelli) or United (Rooney, RVP, Hernandez & Welbeck)? Ill leave that one for you to decide.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luis Suarez (Liverpool)-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Luis Suarez probably has back ache. He's carried Liverpool up to 10th; scoring 16 out of the 35 goals that the club have scored in the Premier League this season. Im a big fan of Suarez. He gets loads of hate but just responds by doing his job, putting the ball in the back of the net. His goal against Newcastle was the pick of the bunch for me; the skill level required to execute that was amazing. Suarez definitely deserves to be in my Starting XI.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Manager:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Steve Clarke (West Brom)-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think Steve Clarke has surprised many people this season. West Brom currently sit in 7th, just one point off 5th placed Arsenal and 5 off Chelsea in 4th. Europa League football at The Hawthorns next season is a real possibility. It will be interesting to see if Clarke splashes any cash before January 31st.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's an image of how my team would line up.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFf6XAgzCIxhU92E1mmwcgdhQpTdR8kMSuw0yvhWq422jUXJWMI2Hay16iV3PgA1mga_shJccS710xz8kmlAF2SCUwl5PtWgnMdAjG571ar7JoDG_AonSODEtE9Ed1O6UmQOe948Ijk1ef/s1600/The+Team.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFf6XAgzCIxhU92E1mmwcgdhQpTdR8kMSuw0yvhWq422jUXJWMI2Hay16iV3PgA1mga_shJccS710xz8kmlAF2SCUwl5PtWgnMdAjG571ar7JoDG_AonSODEtE9Ed1O6UmQOe948Ijk1ef/s400/The+Team.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Substitutes:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Michu (Swansea), Sergio Aguero (Manchester City) , Michael Carrick (Manchester United), Ben Foster (West Brom), Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Theo Walcott (Arsenal).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thankyou for reading this article. Please give me feedback via Twitter or Email. Twitter: @samwhufcfrancis - Email: sam11sf@live.co.uk</span></div>
<br />Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-64482417026964340242013-01-01T14:20:00.000+00:002013-01-01T14:30:53.018+00:00West Ham vs Norwich: The Teams<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">West Ham: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Reid, Tomkins, O'Brien, Noble, Collison, Taylor, Jarvis, Vaz Te, Cole.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Quite a strong squad, im glad to see that Collins isnt in the squad as he picked up 5 yellow cards. Hopefully Vaz Te will pull out a big performance to make up for that miss at Reading last week. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Im not going to predict the result as if I predict a win for us we tend to lose most of the time!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Norwich team is Bunn, Martin, Bassong, Turner, R. Bennett, Snodgrass, Howson, Tettey, Pilkington, Hoolahan, Kane for those interested.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Feel free to tweet me your match predictions :) - @samwhufcfrancis</span></span>Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-14366356215475099682013-01-01T02:57:00.000+00:002013-01-01T02:57:08.784+00:00Happy New Year Everyone!Happy New Year Everyone.<div>
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The January Transfer Window is now open. Im sure that there will be some transfer shocks during this month. Who's looking forward to deadline day? A bit of Jim White on the telly to end another transfer window!</div>
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2012 was an amazing year of football, there plenty of ups and down's. 2013 has a very hard task of being as good as 2012. </div>
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I hope you've all had a great night celebrating the New Year. Here's to a successful 2013!</div>
Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3680869751979619920.post-58886483628561648892012-12-30T22:36:00.000+00:002012-12-30T22:36:03.567+00:00West Ham United: My Player Of The Year 2012<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My player of the year for West Ham has to be Winston Reid. Since joining the club from Midtjylland in 2010, Reid has developed into an amazing talent. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimGYAAIvJu7n8xRbL_RUfCsckvNqSCsHN3AUaDdwEtDB7m6H0Zhe2Kqdms-AFYJJRjYOl2NU05RkSLYjbV-2nHsp8hOa-rKfj1Ex9aR-TMNEyT9yfwrpYxvfYVk8qs5nirWROLpIsA5E9q/s1600/west-ham-v-millwall-winston-reid_2712886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimGYAAIvJu7n8xRbL_RUfCsckvNqSCsHN3AUaDdwEtDB7m6H0Zhe2Kqdms-AFYJJRjYOl2NU05RkSLYjbV-2nHsp8hOa-rKfj1Ex9aR-TMNEyT9yfwrpYxvfYVk8qs5nirWROLpIsA5E9q/s200/west-ham-v-millwall-winston-reid_2712886.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Throughout 2012 Winston Reid has been consistently class. 2012 has been the year where the 24 year old New Zealender's talents have shone though. In the Championship he conjured up some match winning performances- helping us to promotion through the play offs. In the play off final, him and James Tomkins had an amazing game and fully deserved their winners medals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Winston has taken the step up to the Premier League in his stride and has been one our best players this season. In my opinion, one of his best performances came against QPR before he had to go off with an injury. He literally flung his body at everything. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZiFvWYQFO9vvzweKa1eiA636vRnfFzaXzYZo5Wx42P-lqJhz0mB0BgYwBYszeTB6w_5Fg03CX0pYEFZn9tTp0hvEw62kuoTPoe5SPLXdc_e7wQGjgVo1Hnlrr-ZJ_UIdCE71uTq6Cm86/s1600/2287208014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZiFvWYQFO9vvzweKa1eiA636vRnfFzaXzYZo5Wx42P-lqJhz0mB0BgYwBYszeTB6w_5Fg03CX0pYEFZn9tTp0hvEw62kuoTPoe5SPLXdc_e7wQGjgVo1Hnlrr-ZJ_UIdCE71uTq6Cm86/s200/2287208014.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Winston Reid has all the attributes of a class defender. He's a good in the air, good at tackling, good tactically and is not afraid to put his body on the line for the sake of his team. When you see Reid's name on the teamsheet, you know you've got a player who will put in 110% throughout the 90 minutes. Winston is one of the most underrated defenders in the Premier League; so im glad to see him finally getting the credit he deserves from the West Ham faithful. I hope he get's the credit he deserves from other football fans soon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If he starts 2013 the way he's ended 2012, Big Sam will be recieving a few phone calls from fellow managers in the summer. He has another 10+ years ahead of him and he can only get better so we should do all we can to try and keep hold of him if the situation comes around. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thanks for reading this article. Please give me feedback by Tweeting or Emailing me. Twitter: @samwhufcfrancis - Email: sam11sf@live.co.uk</span></div>
Sam Francishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13067611127476550779noreply@blogger.com0