After a number of negative headlines in recent weeks, Hammers fans will finally be relieved at the news that Andy Carroll and Aaron Cresswell could be set to make a return from injury in time for the trip to Selhurst Park to play Crystal Palace immediately after the international break.
Both have been out for a period of months with serious knee injuries, but the Evening Standard believe that both will return in time for the Irons’ next fixture as they seek a first win since victory over Bournemouth in August. Both players have been sorely lacked, with Alvaro Arbeloa and Michail Antonio both playing out of position to uncomfortably provide cover in their positions at the weekend after Arthur Masuaku also picked up an injury and Simone Zaza has disappointed since signing.
However, it’s not all good news, as the Hammers Ladies team have caused stinging criticism from the sides manager of his own club. Stephen Hunt has explained how the squad has been forced to continue wearing last season’s kits, crossing out the names on the back, and train on streets as the club refuse to allow them to use the club facilities. He told the press:
“Initially what I thought was a lack of interest I now believe is a positive intent by West Ham to block the growth of West Ham Ladies.”
The club have now responded, saying:
“The day to day management of West Ham United Ladies FC was transferred to a third party some time ago, and unfortunately it is an arrangement that has simply not worked. The Club have been working for some time on plans to take West Ham United Ladies FC ‘in-house’ and, in light of Mr Hunt’s most recent deeply concerning comments, we will now be seeking to do so at the earliest opportunity.”
Fans will be hoping to see the club take action to right the situation and provide the funds necessary for the team to compete with the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City ladies.
There is more devastating news for Hammers fans as cult hero and former defender Rigobert Song has fallen unwell, leaving him fighting for his life in hospital according to the Guardian. The Cameroonian made 28 appearances between 2000 and 2002 for the club and is now the Chad national team coach, but has suffered a stroke and is now in hospital.
The 40-year-old also featured for Liverpool in the Premier League before spells in France, Germany and Turkey before retiring and moving into coaching.
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