Back by very popular demand is the return of Ask The Opposition. Our segment where we ask fans of opposing teams forums some questions and post a selection of the responses back on here.
I've asked questions to West Ham fans on KUMB.com (click link to view the thread on their forum as there've been so many replies that I couldn't fit them all in here) and here are their responses. Thanks to some newbie users for providing some of the questions (they have been credited):
Q1: After a poor start to the season, do you think van Gaal is the right man for Manchester United?
vietnammer: Both managers since 'imself have had to take on an Atlas-like burden of decades of success. After such a long time with one manager, it's hard to say 'who the right man' is since Ferguson made the job his own and managers are individuals.
Danny's Dyer Acting: Yes. But he needs time. When he came in this summer the attacking side of the team needed re-energising and the defence needed totally rebuilding with 3 of your best players of the last 30 years leaving at once. Arguably they took on the wrong job first but on the flipside there will be some big wins that will stay bringing some fear back to teams playing against Man Utd. Big summer coming up already though!
Monkeybubbles: I think you needed someone with a bit of an iron will and a whole load of self-confidence to take over from SAF. That was never gonna be Moyes, but LVG seems to fit the bill. So would Magath, shame, that's a missed opportunity for us all.
Clucking Bell: Probably. Fergie definitely gave Moyes a hospital ball where all the best players were over 30. I suppose it was sold to Moyes as a 'build your own team' sort of thing but, he really needed to buy six or seven good players in the close season and couldn't do it. Van Gaal can probably attract better players than Moyes but, arguably your problem has got one season worse. That said, you've bought some fantastic players but, you definitely need real replacements for Vidic and Ferdinand.
Stepney: I am sure in the end he will get it right. His CV is decent, but everybody thought that he would be instantly successful but there is obviously something more deeply wrong at Manchester United than the manager. Maybe sacking Moyes wasn't such a wise move after all? Fergie knew Morrison was bad news which we keep seeing examples of. And he obviously thought Moyes was the right man for the job but wasn't given enough time. Who knows, maybe he would've turned it around? Hindsight is a wonderful thing though, isn't it?!
Hambrosia Stu: Whoever it was needs the time to transform the dilapidated squad (relatively speaking) Fergie left behind. If he has the desire for the long term task needed, in terms of rebuilding your whole squad pretty much, he's the right man. His footballing credentials are without question. My doubts would be about how committed he is to what is likely to be a tough and long project
Het-Field: Van Gaal has built teams which Guadiola has taken a lot of credit for, and has won top titles with. But I would always credit Van Gaal with the wins as it was his legwork which made all the difference at Barcelona and Munich. I felt United were hoping lightning would strike twice with Moyes. But he is in no way comparable to Van Gaal, and I was of the opinion that United should have been looking for an established manager in terms of pedigree last year. Moyes's appointment was a coronation, without any real forensic examination of alternatives. Van Gaal comes ready made for success. Leave aside the Leicester result, he will come good.
Danny's Dyer Acting: Yes. But he needs time. When he came in this summer the attacking side of the team needed re-energising and the defence needed totally rebuilding with 3 of your best players of the last 30 years leaving at once. Arguably they took on the wrong job first but on the flipside there will be some big wins that will stay bringing some fear back to teams playing against Man Utd. Big summer coming up already though!
Monkeybubbles: I think you needed someone with a bit of an iron will and a whole load of self-confidence to take over from SAF. That was never gonna be Moyes, but LVG seems to fit the bill. So would Magath, shame, that's a missed opportunity for us all.
Clucking Bell: Probably. Fergie definitely gave Moyes a hospital ball where all the best players were over 30. I suppose it was sold to Moyes as a 'build your own team' sort of thing but, he really needed to buy six or seven good players in the close season and couldn't do it. Van Gaal can probably attract better players than Moyes but, arguably your problem has got one season worse. That said, you've bought some fantastic players but, you definitely need real replacements for Vidic and Ferdinand.
Stepney: I am sure in the end he will get it right. His CV is decent, but everybody thought that he would be instantly successful but there is obviously something more deeply wrong at Manchester United than the manager. Maybe sacking Moyes wasn't such a wise move after all? Fergie knew Morrison was bad news which we keep seeing examples of. And he obviously thought Moyes was the right man for the job but wasn't given enough time. Who knows, maybe he would've turned it around? Hindsight is a wonderful thing though, isn't it?!
Hambrosia Stu: Whoever it was needs the time to transform the dilapidated squad (relatively speaking) Fergie left behind. If he has the desire for the long term task needed, in terms of rebuilding your whole squad pretty much, he's the right man. His footballing credentials are without question. My doubts would be about how committed he is to what is likely to be a tough and long project
Het-Field: Van Gaal has built teams which Guadiola has taken a lot of credit for, and has won top titles with. But I would always credit Van Gaal with the wins as it was his legwork which made all the difference at Barcelona and Munich. I felt United were hoping lightning would strike twice with Moyes. But he is in no way comparable to Van Gaal, and I was of the opinion that United should have been looking for an established manager in terms of pedigree last year. Moyes's appointment was a coronation, without any real forensic examination of alternatives. Van Gaal comes ready made for success. Leave aside the Leicester result, he will come good.
Q2: How do you feel about Manchester United in general?
vietnammer: In the 80's I used to say to Man Utd fans 'just buy Liverpool if you want success' but what Man Utd have done since deserves respect and shows it's not just money. Don't like to see them in the state they're in now.
The Rebirth: I grew up in a house with Manchester Utd fans (Step dad's a Cockney Red) I don't dislike them at all, people laugh at their current situation but it stems from jealousy in my opinion,down to Man Utd being such a domestic force the last 20 years
prophet:marginal: I like the wit of some of the old school (away) support, but, in general, you're probably one of the most blameworthy and unlikeable clubs of the Prem era.
gegsy: I'm enjoying the moment. I keep getting flashbacks to all the wanky cockney reds I have known over the years. You know the sort, their Dad thought about Salford once in 1984 so they were born to be Man Utd supporters, and then I see their faces (in my head) when Leicester scored their 5th and it makes me laugh. A lot. I think it's good for you to get a little bit of what the rest of us go through week in, week out. Hahahahahahaha, see? It just happened again.
claretnblueglasses: I think your hardcore, match going fans are amongst the best, but it's the tag along fans I can't stand, who feel they can look down on other clubs just because they chose to pick the most fashionable club. As a club, I have respect for your achievements.
WHUJohn: Don't like the at all and never have. I despise the way they attract fans from all around the country who should instead be supporting their local team instead of just a "winning" team. I think that's wrong and says a lot about a person and their lack of moral fibre.
DaveWHU1964: SAF did an amazing job of course but allowed your squad to slowly deteriorate. You recognised too late that you needed to spend a lot of money, and have slipped along way behind City and Chelsea. It'll take time to catch up if they allow you to.
Clucking Bell: Dunno really. Along with Arsenal, you've always been a bit of a football super-power as you were both caked even before the Premier League was formed so I guess I've resented the fact that you've been able to buy much better players than us. Always felt we could get a result on the day though. Never hated you in the same way as I did the scousers.
Het-Field: As a kid growing up in Dublin, the choice of supporting West Ham was not really on the table. Thus, i came to West Ham after 7 years following MUFC. Hence, while they wouldnt even by a "second team", I prefer them to win titles over any other of "the big four-six". Ferguson (in spite of his occasional objectional character) was the best manager ever spawned in Britain, he cultivated world class teams, and players, made players available for transfer who became big star at other clubs, inculcated a managerial spirit in the players, and won everything he could possibly win in the game. Thus, i have a strong respect for United, as a polar opposite to neo-Chelsea, or the version of Manchester City we see today.
AnthraxDave: Nothing too negative. I'd rather you guys win the league than Chelsea. To put it bluntly!
I think that, alongside the Germans, Man Utd are the most financially well-run big European club. It is always refreshing to see you still giving youth players a first team spot. Something we kind of have in common.
The Rebirth: I grew up in a house with Manchester Utd fans (Step dad's a Cockney Red) I don't dislike them at all, people laugh at their current situation but it stems from jealousy in my opinion,down to Man Utd being such a domestic force the last 20 years
prophet:marginal: I like the wit of some of the old school (away) support, but, in general, you're probably one of the most blameworthy and unlikeable clubs of the Prem era.
gegsy: I'm enjoying the moment. I keep getting flashbacks to all the wanky cockney reds I have known over the years. You know the sort, their Dad thought about Salford once in 1984 so they were born to be Man Utd supporters, and then I see their faces (in my head) when Leicester scored their 5th and it makes me laugh. A lot. I think it's good for you to get a little bit of what the rest of us go through week in, week out. Hahahahahahaha, see? It just happened again.
claretnblueglasses: I think your hardcore, match going fans are amongst the best, but it's the tag along fans I can't stand, who feel they can look down on other clubs just because they chose to pick the most fashionable club. As a club, I have respect for your achievements.
WHUJohn: Don't like the at all and never have. I despise the way they attract fans from all around the country who should instead be supporting their local team instead of just a "winning" team. I think that's wrong and says a lot about a person and their lack of moral fibre.
DaveWHU1964: SAF did an amazing job of course but allowed your squad to slowly deteriorate. You recognised too late that you needed to spend a lot of money, and have slipped along way behind City and Chelsea. It'll take time to catch up if they allow you to.
Clucking Bell: Dunno really. Along with Arsenal, you've always been a bit of a football super-power as you were both caked even before the Premier League was formed so I guess I've resented the fact that you've been able to buy much better players than us. Always felt we could get a result on the day though. Never hated you in the same way as I did the scousers.
Het-Field: As a kid growing up in Dublin, the choice of supporting West Ham was not really on the table. Thus, i came to West Ham after 7 years following MUFC. Hence, while they wouldnt even by a "second team", I prefer them to win titles over any other of "the big four-six". Ferguson (in spite of his occasional objectional character) was the best manager ever spawned in Britain, he cultivated world class teams, and players, made players available for transfer who became big star at other clubs, inculcated a managerial spirit in the players, and won everything he could possibly win in the game. Thus, i have a strong respect for United, as a polar opposite to neo-Chelsea, or the version of Manchester City we see today.
AnthraxDave: Nothing too negative. I'd rather you guys win the league than Chelsea. To put it bluntly!
I think that, alongside the Germans, Man Utd are the most financially well-run big European club. It is always refreshing to see you still giving youth players a first team spot. Something we kind of have in common.
Q3: Verdict on how you've done in the transfer market this summer?
The Rebirth: Because of how well we've started abeit Southampton I would say really good, it makes good viewing when you have ball players in your team
gegsy: Early signs are pretty good. Cheikou Kouyate is my new man crush and Diafra Sakho is everything I thought he might be.
claretnblueglasses: Bossed it, some of the best business in the league. Not one signing is there to be sniffed at. Squad has so much more quality than last season.
mywhufc: Really well, majority were gambles with no prem experience but they have done the best
DaveWHU1964: Our best ever window has quite possibly given us our best ever squad. It's all relative though. You probably wouldn't think much of it
Danny's Dyer Acting: All seems a bit too good to be true at the moment! Everyone has slotted in well and with the exception of Poyet and Amalfitano you couldn't argue (much, we'd try though) if Sam said they were all first choice in their respective roles.
Romford: Pace upfront, class in the middle and options on the bench. Happy days
Monkeybubbles: Stoked. It feels like the new lads really want to achieve something (although Song is maybe just along for the ride). Obviously none of them have anything like the technique of some of yours, but they do seem to have a bit of hunger.
arlhe: We've done well. Kouyate was a great buy and Song on loan was a real steal. The front two have given us some pace at last.
gegsy: Early signs are pretty good. Cheikou Kouyate is my new man crush and Diafra Sakho is everything I thought he might be.
claretnblueglasses: Bossed it, some of the best business in the league. Not one signing is there to be sniffed at. Squad has so much more quality than last season.
mywhufc: Really well, majority were gambles with no prem experience but they have done the best
DaveWHU1964: Our best ever window has quite possibly given us our best ever squad. It's all relative though. You probably wouldn't think much of it
Danny's Dyer Acting: All seems a bit too good to be true at the moment! Everyone has slotted in well and with the exception of Poyet and Amalfitano you couldn't argue (much, we'd try though) if Sam said they were all first choice in their respective roles.
Romford: Pace upfront, class in the middle and options on the bench. Happy days
Monkeybubbles: Stoked. It feels like the new lads really want to achieve something (although Song is maybe just along for the ride). Obviously none of them have anything like the technique of some of yours, but they do seem to have a bit of hunger.
arlhe: We've done well. Kouyate was a great buy and Song on loan was a real steal. The front two have given us some pace at last.
Q4: A lot was made in the media about how Allardyce outsmarted Rodgers in your win over Liverpool. What's the consensus among West Ham fans about Allardyce nowadays, and what's your personal opinion? (question suggested by Fener1907)
Lincolnhammer92: I guess the general consensus is that he's got this season to either earn a new contract or he'll be gone. Personally, I've always thought he was the right bloke, and hope he takes us into the OS. We'd be ruined without him.
Philosophical Dan: I was never in the "Allardyce Out" camp. It's debatable if he enforced it properly, but after years of hopeless defending at set-pieces, free kicks that did very little and throw ins that went straight to the opposition, his efforts to strenghten the basic areas were welcome. That he's modified our strategy so wildly this season, by comparison to last, took me by surprise, but other than the Southampton game, he's got his tactics pretty much spot on.
The Rebirth: I understand what Sam has done since he's been at West Ham he initially had a team which he knew could defend, the quality in the team last year was poor, now we have quality. I think it's a misconception that Allardyce cannot put out a footballing side or likes to play Football
gegsy: I've always supported Allardyce. I think he is a proper manager. Last season was tough but a lot of that was stuff out of his control. People forget Zola, Roeder, Grant. We made do, a lot.
claretnblueglasses: A few results across the last year or so have had me on the tip of really wanting him gone (I.e. The back to back cup exits against Forest and Man City) but I'm ultimately pleased we stuck with him in the end.
mywhufc: Personally I can't wait for the day he leaves, no matter how good the recent results, wrong man for this club from day 1 and has only helped divide the fans greater then any other manager can.
DaveWHU1964: Mate - we've been trying to come to a consensus for years. Not happening. Personally I think he's done as good a job as could possibly have been expected of him. Promotion. Staying up. And now looking capable of kicking on with a much better squad.
smarthammer: Clever bloke - disparaged because of his blunt west midlands demeanour, method and roundness that suggests he should of lived in water. Doesn't suffer fools but seems to have the footballing part sorted. Be good to see him spend proper money.
AnthraxDave: Sam was EXACTLY what we needed after the shambles of Avram Grant and relegation. Any of the sides looking for a new manager back in last November/December would have appointed him had he been available. I think we are lucky to have him. It is a long-term project, leading up to the move to the OS, and he fits the bill. A lesser man would have said "**** this, I'm off" at times in the past 12 months.
In the past decade, we have been far too choppy-changey with managers for my liking.
rare as rockinghorse shat: I've always liked the bloke. I wanted him here 6 months before he was appointed. I was championing his cause, how the evolution of his teams requires patience, that it gets bad before it gets a bit boring before it starts to get good. We saw his M.O at Bolton. They turned into a good footballing team, with some technically sound players after going through a lot of crap from people labeling them solely as long ball.
Blackburn didn't offer him the time to turn it round, nor did Newcastle. I'm delighted we did...
Philosophical Dan: I was never in the "Allardyce Out" camp. It's debatable if he enforced it properly, but after years of hopeless defending at set-pieces, free kicks that did very little and throw ins that went straight to the opposition, his efforts to strenghten the basic areas were welcome. That he's modified our strategy so wildly this season, by comparison to last, took me by surprise, but other than the Southampton game, he's got his tactics pretty much spot on.
The Rebirth: I understand what Sam has done since he's been at West Ham he initially had a team which he knew could defend, the quality in the team last year was poor, now we have quality. I think it's a misconception that Allardyce cannot put out a footballing side or likes to play Football
gegsy: I've always supported Allardyce. I think he is a proper manager. Last season was tough but a lot of that was stuff out of his control. People forget Zola, Roeder, Grant. We made do, a lot.
claretnblueglasses: A few results across the last year or so have had me on the tip of really wanting him gone (I.e. The back to back cup exits against Forest and Man City) but I'm ultimately pleased we stuck with him in the end.
mywhufc: Personally I can't wait for the day he leaves, no matter how good the recent results, wrong man for this club from day 1 and has only helped divide the fans greater then any other manager can.
DaveWHU1964: Mate - we've been trying to come to a consensus for years. Not happening. Personally I think he's done as good a job as could possibly have been expected of him. Promotion. Staying up. And now looking capable of kicking on with a much better squad.
smarthammer: Clever bloke - disparaged because of his blunt west midlands demeanour, method and roundness that suggests he should of lived in water. Doesn't suffer fools but seems to have the footballing part sorted. Be good to see him spend proper money.
AnthraxDave: Sam was EXACTLY what we needed after the shambles of Avram Grant and relegation. Any of the sides looking for a new manager back in last November/December would have appointed him had he been available. I think we are lucky to have him. It is a long-term project, leading up to the move to the OS, and he fits the bill. A lesser man would have said "**** this, I'm off" at times in the past 12 months.
In the past decade, we have been far too choppy-changey with managers for my liking.
rare as rockinghorse shat: I've always liked the bloke. I wanted him here 6 months before he was appointed. I was championing his cause, how the evolution of his teams requires patience, that it gets bad before it gets a bit boring before it starts to get good. We saw his M.O at Bolton. They turned into a good footballing team, with some technically sound players after going through a lot of crap from people labeling them solely as long ball.
Blackburn didn't offer him the time to turn it round, nor did Newcastle. I'm delighted we did...
Q5: Pretty closely related to the above but how much credit do you give to Allardyce for the perceived change in style, or do you think it is down to things like the appointment of Sheringham? (question suggested by clarkydaz)
Philosophical Dan: Most of the plaudits need to go to Sam. Ted might have helped them with their shooting and movement, but it's his tactics that have caught teams (and fans) off guard.
vietnammer: 'position' coaches are a bit of an esoteric thing, like feng shui, and I think it's the players we've acquired + Sam trying in some measure to please the fans that have upped our goal diff.
The Rebirth: Allardyce is very defence orientated, Teddy won't take any credit he says it's all down to them (the players) against Liverpool Allardyce could have played very defensively but he didn't and we won, I think if he has the quality at his disposal he isn't afraid to be a bit more open, sadly some of our fans can't get that around their heads
mumbles87: I think its a combination of sam having the players he needs to play the better football now along with a coach like sheringham working with the strikers to help with their finishing. Best in the business after all
WHUJohn: I think it's down to upgrading players rather than anything else. We have bought better players than what we had available last season and the one before that and it's shown in how we've played so far this season. I don't think Sheringham has a great deal to do with anything to be honest.
DaveWHU1964: A lot is down to Sam. Some down to the board giving him a better budget. It was only an increase from about £20 million to about £25 million. Doesn't sound a lot but in our terms it was. I think Sherringham was and remains a PR sop to the fans.
Clucking Bell: Last season I think Sam made an Andy Carroll sized rod for his own back and I suspect the board were banking on being able to sign a Lukaku or Demba Ba type on loan. We then had all of our centre backs out injured for what seemed like half a season. Realistically, what should we have expected? As it was, we were pretty lucky to stay up and fortunate that there were some really shitty teams in the league. This year, we've shifted out some of the oldies and crappies and I think that Sam has proven he can play better football with better players. Obviously, given last season, there a quite a few sceptics but, if we get to the New Year in the top half, a lot of the floating voters will start to give Sam the credit in the same way they blamed him for last season.
Stepney: Teddy himself has said that he can't take too much credit (unless he was just being humble) so I guess you have to give him some credit. Not sure why he has suddenly swallowed his pride after all this time and listened to the fans demands? With these new players it's difficult to see them play any other way than quick, attacking football as it seems to come naturally to them. So it could be argued that we are playing this way because of the new players and nothing else. People would like to believe that Sam had a big say in buying these players but I am not so sure. I think the owners had a lot more to do with it than people think. So to give Sam all the credit seems unwaranted. He would have Carroll and Nolan and playing long balls all day long if given the chance, but they are injured so this is what he has got now: fast, pass and move, on the deck players. So of course lots of credit will be given to him. The real test of Mr Allardyce will be when Carroll and Nolan are fit again. Then we will see how far his football philosophy has come. I will take him at his word for the Liverpool game because he said that his gameplan was to get at them early and not let them control the game for the first 15 minutes. And that's what we did. And that's why we won. But I am still not overly convinced that he can take all the credit for this 'new style' because it could just be a freak accident born out of necessity. Again, lets see when everyone is fit before we blow too much sunshine up his arse.
vietnammer: 'position' coaches are a bit of an esoteric thing, like feng shui, and I think it's the players we've acquired + Sam trying in some measure to please the fans that have upped our goal diff.
The Rebirth: Allardyce is very defence orientated, Teddy won't take any credit he says it's all down to them (the players) against Liverpool Allardyce could have played very defensively but he didn't and we won, I think if he has the quality at his disposal he isn't afraid to be a bit more open, sadly some of our fans can't get that around their heads
mumbles87: I think its a combination of sam having the players he needs to play the better football now along with a coach like sheringham working with the strikers to help with their finishing. Best in the business after all
WHUJohn: I think it's down to upgrading players rather than anything else. We have bought better players than what we had available last season and the one before that and it's shown in how we've played so far this season. I don't think Sheringham has a great deal to do with anything to be honest.
DaveWHU1964: A lot is down to Sam. Some down to the board giving him a better budget. It was only an increase from about £20 million to about £25 million. Doesn't sound a lot but in our terms it was. I think Sherringham was and remains a PR sop to the fans.
Clucking Bell: Last season I think Sam made an Andy Carroll sized rod for his own back and I suspect the board were banking on being able to sign a Lukaku or Demba Ba type on loan. We then had all of our centre backs out injured for what seemed like half a season. Realistically, what should we have expected? As it was, we were pretty lucky to stay up and fortunate that there were some really shitty teams in the league. This year, we've shifted out some of the oldies and crappies and I think that Sam has proven he can play better football with better players. Obviously, given last season, there a quite a few sceptics but, if we get to the New Year in the top half, a lot of the floating voters will start to give Sam the credit in the same way they blamed him for last season.
Stepney: Teddy himself has said that he can't take too much credit (unless he was just being humble) so I guess you have to give him some credit. Not sure why he has suddenly swallowed his pride after all this time and listened to the fans demands? With these new players it's difficult to see them play any other way than quick, attacking football as it seems to come naturally to them. So it could be argued that we are playing this way because of the new players and nothing else. People would like to believe that Sam had a big say in buying these players but I am not so sure. I think the owners had a lot more to do with it than people think. So to give Sam all the credit seems unwaranted. He would have Carroll and Nolan and playing long balls all day long if given the chance, but they are injured so this is what he has got now: fast, pass and move, on the deck players. So of course lots of credit will be given to him. The real test of Mr Allardyce will be when Carroll and Nolan are fit again. Then we will see how far his football philosophy has come. I will take him at his word for the Liverpool game because he said that his gameplan was to get at them early and not let them control the game for the first 15 minutes. And that's what we did. And that's why we won. But I am still not overly convinced that he can take all the credit for this 'new style' because it could just be a freak accident born out of necessity. Again, lets see when everyone is fit before we blow too much sunshine up his arse.
Q6: How do you feel about Ravel Morrison being a West Ham player (now out on loan again) with the baggage he brings? (question suggested by clarkydaz)
the wren: I think he'll be gone sooner rather than later. If Fergie and Sam can't handle him I don't know who can.
Philosophical Dan: Not a fan of the boy, but there's no doubt he's got some fabulous skill. I doubt he'll ever live up to the billing, and wouldn't be shocked if he ends up behind bars at some point in his life.
vietnammer: Dunno what to make of him tbh. He's piddling away the only opportunity he'll get in life and it's frustrating to see. Don't think he'll stay with us.
gegsy: He's talented, no doubt, but he's out on loan again which tells its own story. If he's convicted of hitting his girlfriend and her mum then that's about it for him I think.
mumbles87: After getting very excited over him I wouldnt mind if he left us. Dont need his attitude. We have Poyet who whilst isnt as flashy he has his head in the right place.
WHUJohn: He's a great footballer, no doubt about it. But unfortunately his life outside of the game seems obscenely unstable and that of course causes problems with his football. Haven't seen anything at all to suggest things are changing in his life outside of the football unfortunately lately and that will obvious see his career go backwards which is a real shame as he has bundles upon bundles of talent and is a lovely footballer.
Clucking Bell: Tricky one this. I think we'd all like to see him grow up and fulfill his potential as he's probably the most naturally skillful English player since Gascoigne. However, we all know how Gazza turned out and I can see this ending in tears too. As others have said, if Fergie and Sam can't sort him out, HMP will probably have to.
kitthehammer: He just isn't worth the hassle until he grows up, but sadly i don't think he's going to. A good player, but he thinks he's better than he actually is and sadly so do the media.
AnthraxDave: Unbelievably talented. But a complete headcase from what I can tell. If he had 1/4 of Mark Noble's attitude, he could be the best player in Europe. I see him, sadly, being dead before he hits 30.
Philosophical Dan: Not a fan of the boy, but there's no doubt he's got some fabulous skill. I doubt he'll ever live up to the billing, and wouldn't be shocked if he ends up behind bars at some point in his life.
vietnammer: Dunno what to make of him tbh. He's piddling away the only opportunity he'll get in life and it's frustrating to see. Don't think he'll stay with us.
gegsy: He's talented, no doubt, but he's out on loan again which tells its own story. If he's convicted of hitting his girlfriend and her mum then that's about it for him I think.
mumbles87: After getting very excited over him I wouldnt mind if he left us. Dont need his attitude. We have Poyet who whilst isnt as flashy he has his head in the right place.
WHUJohn: He's a great footballer, no doubt about it. But unfortunately his life outside of the game seems obscenely unstable and that of course causes problems with his football. Haven't seen anything at all to suggest things are changing in his life outside of the football unfortunately lately and that will obvious see his career go backwards which is a real shame as he has bundles upon bundles of talent and is a lovely footballer.
Clucking Bell: Tricky one this. I think we'd all like to see him grow up and fulfill his potential as he's probably the most naturally skillful English player since Gascoigne. However, we all know how Gazza turned out and I can see this ending in tears too. As others have said, if Fergie and Sam can't sort him out, HMP will probably have to.
kitthehammer: He just isn't worth the hassle until he grows up, but sadly i don't think he's going to. A good player, but he thinks he's better than he actually is and sadly so do the media.
AnthraxDave: Unbelievably talented. But a complete headcase from what I can tell. If he had 1/4 of Mark Noble's attitude, he could be the best player in Europe. I see him, sadly, being dead before he hits 30.
Q7: With Manchester United looking fragile at the back, are you going to Old Trafford expecting a result, or is there any trepidation of a possible backlash? Best time to play Manchester United, or worst? (question suggested by DatIrishFella)
vietnammer: Probably the only time we've gone there in 30 years with some expectation of a win.
The Rebirth: West Ham are always the best team to play when a team is struggling, I don't know why! but sods law you'll play the best football this season and win
gegsy: You've got to be favourites haven't you? Di Maria, Rooney, Falcao, Mata, RVP - not a bad forward line. If we get a draw then that would be amazing.
mywhufc: Best, you've never been this weak at the back but funnily enough all fergie signings, though with your front line still could be dangerous
DaveWHU1964: Good questions. Personally I feel we could get something. If we'd have had Kouyate fit alongside Song I think we could have controlled the midfield and that would not have been good news for that defence of yours.
Romford: Best time...although i don't think many grounds have any trepidation anymore, we lose to everyone !
Monkeybubbles: Once your new front 6 have gelled (whichever front 6 you choose) you'll be muthafukkin awesome. I see some great games ahead. For now, though, they haven't clicked, and confidence is probably low, and your defence is injured/suspended/pants....could there ever be a better time?
arlhe: Unlike others I don't think the ref is your twelfth man any more. That ended when Ferguson left. I still think there will be a backlash this weekend. The best time to play you was immediately after the 4-0 win over QPR. That glossed over all the defensive problems.
rare as rockinghorse shat: Christ knows! Both really.
You can count on West Ham being the team to break bad runs.
Rafael not scored in 675 games? No worries... a brace against us, including a 30yd screamer.
There certainly is optimism, that's for sure... but when we're at our most optimistic, is just before we get tonked.
Like my dreams....
The Rebirth: West Ham are always the best team to play when a team is struggling, I don't know why! but sods law you'll play the best football this season and win
gegsy: You've got to be favourites haven't you? Di Maria, Rooney, Falcao, Mata, RVP - not a bad forward line. If we get a draw then that would be amazing.
mywhufc: Best, you've never been this weak at the back but funnily enough all fergie signings, though with your front line still could be dangerous
DaveWHU1964: Good questions. Personally I feel we could get something. If we'd have had Kouyate fit alongside Song I think we could have controlled the midfield and that would not have been good news for that defence of yours.
Romford: Best time...although i don't think many grounds have any trepidation anymore, we lose to everyone !
Monkeybubbles: Once your new front 6 have gelled (whichever front 6 you choose) you'll be muthafukkin awesome. I see some great games ahead. For now, though, they haven't clicked, and confidence is probably low, and your defence is injured/suspended/pants....could there ever be a better time?
arlhe: Unlike others I don't think the ref is your twelfth man any more. That ended when Ferguson left. I still think there will be a backlash this weekend. The best time to play you was immediately after the 4-0 win over QPR. That glossed over all the defensive problems.
rare as rockinghorse shat: Christ knows! Both really.
You can count on West Ham being the team to break bad runs.
Rafael not scored in 675 games? No worries... a brace against us, including a 30yd screamer.
There certainly is optimism, that's for sure... but when we're at our most optimistic, is just before we get tonked.
Like my dreams....
Q8: What's the goal this season for your club? Do you think you can get a top half finish? (question suggested by Oh Manchester...)
prophet:marginal: Qualification for Europe. A top half finish is achievable, but not guaranteed.
westhamgardner: I'd be happy with improvement and entertainment. Its going to be a tough year with Southampton and Swansea etc starting well. Would like to be safe and not have to worry about relegation with a few weeks to go. Also depends on injuries, if most of our players get and stay fit we have an exciting squad.
WHUJohn: Stay up, just as it always is. Top half could be possible. From 7th downwards there isn't a great deal between any team IMO and anyone could really finish in any order from 17th - 8th.
DaveWHU1964: Yes I do. But about 15-16 clubs will think the same. I'd have us with more points and goals than last season and higher than last season. By how much will depend on luck and injuries. We'll see.
ironsean: I'd be happy with an uneventful season mid table with no relegation scares. This is West Ham though so...
Het-Field: Unless Sam has changed his tune in relation to the FA Cup, it will have to be a top half finish. There are six teams better than us in MCFC, CFC, AFC, MUFC, LFC, and EFC. Yes, we will get certain results against there teams, but they will be more consistent than us unfortunately.
AnthraxDave: Absolutely. The confident part of me says we can finish 8th. The realistic side of me (knowing our entire squad will come down with Swine Flu or something for 10 weeks) says 13th. A season of no relegation worries, some underdog/shock results and a run in the FA Cup would be excellent.
westhamgardner: I'd be happy with improvement and entertainment. Its going to be a tough year with Southampton and Swansea etc starting well. Would like to be safe and not have to worry about relegation with a few weeks to go. Also depends on injuries, if most of our players get and stay fit we have an exciting squad.
WHUJohn: Stay up, just as it always is. Top half could be possible. From 7th downwards there isn't a great deal between any team IMO and anyone could really finish in any order from 17th - 8th.
DaveWHU1964: Yes I do. But about 15-16 clubs will think the same. I'd have us with more points and goals than last season and higher than last season. By how much will depend on luck and injuries. We'll see.
ironsean: I'd be happy with an uneventful season mid table with no relegation scares. This is West Ham though so...
Het-Field: Unless Sam has changed his tune in relation to the FA Cup, it will have to be a top half finish. There are six teams better than us in MCFC, CFC, AFC, MUFC, LFC, and EFC. Yes, we will get certain results against there teams, but they will be more consistent than us unfortunately.
AnthraxDave: Absolutely. The confident part of me says we can finish 8th. The realistic side of me (knowing our entire squad will come down with Swine Flu or something for 10 weeks) says 13th. A season of no relegation worries, some underdog/shock results and a run in the FA Cup would be excellent.
Q9: Are you worried about the lack of quality coming through from your youth team? You haven't seem to have been able to produce a Ferdinand, Lampard, Carrick or even a Defoe for a few years. And if so, what do you believe is stemming the growth of younger players? (question suggested by VanGaalEra)
Lincolnhammer92: Not really. For the last five to seven or so years it's been relegation battles, an actual relegation, promotion, consolidation. Once we're properly established, we can bring young lads through. Some great talent in the youth teams at the minute, with Burke, Potts, Oxford, Pask, Brown, Lee, Howes, Cullen, Page. Expect to see a couple break through soon enough.
The Rebirth: No because that's just the way it is, before Lampard, Ferdinand etc who else was there? and how long ago was it? Ince? before him Paul Allen? Brooking? We just had a batch of great players at one time, which we've not had since. You guys tried to nick Oscar Borg from us and Arsenal tried to get another one of our youngsters so the talent is still coming just not in a batch like those guys.
claretnblueglasses: It was insane that we produced so much quality in such a short period (as you did in the early 90's) but that can't carry on consistently I guess. Hopefully a new generation to come through soon.
WHUJohn: Not worried, good footballer don't grow on trees and it's just coincidental that good crops come through all at once. We do still produce good footballers though, no club has produced more footballers to go on and become professional at any level than us and that's something we should be proud of. Instead many just focus on the Ferdinand, Lampards and Carricks of this world and the cream..
mywhufc: Are you boys worried about your youth policy.
Foreign players available cheaper than championship players, but that could be unrealitic prices lower league clubs put on their players. Supporters/owners demanding instant success means the days of youngsters making it at prem clubs will be harder.
Nearly Every prem clubs youth policy's need looking at.
DaveWHU1964: No. It's the way things are. That crop we produced around '99 were a similar batch to yours of a few years earlier. It's a once in a generation thing for a club. Some clubs never do it. It's why we both remember those FA Youth Cup winning teams so fondly. Besides the way the likes of Chelsea snap up any and every young kid nowadays makes it almost impossible to replicate.
Stepney: I am not overly concerned because if we do ever manage to produce anyone good then after briefly tasting the fruits of their ability they will just go to a bigger club (see Ferdinand, Lampard, Carrick and Defoe above who have all spent their best years away from Upton Park). Until we can hang onto players then its not worth worrying about. Yes its a nice feeling to produce 'homegrown' players but what's the point if they will just go and play for your rivals? I would also like to add that this 'Academy of football' tag we have is laughable at times. Yes we did have a good Academy once upon a time, but not right now. Everything goes in cycles. Now its Southamptons turn. Maybe one day we will produce good youth players again but we certainly don't have a god-given right to produce them just because it says 'Academy of Football' near the dugout.
Het-Field: I think the time afforded to younger players in the Premiership is at a premium these days. During the period in which football was gradually going global, there was still great room for youngsters to ply their trade at the top level. The pre-Bosman era almost demanded youngsters to step up, as they had to play in European competition, as the extra foreigners had to sit in the stands. In 1995 Sir Alex was able to dump a large part of his 1992-1995 squad, and win the double with a group of very talented youngsters. If Van Gaal tried that, his team would be beaten time and time again. West Ham had youth in spades. And even today the likes of Tomkins, and Noble are part of the team. However, i dont think it is seen as prudent anymore to vest mass faith in youth players. Hence, they spend the bulk of their time on loan, or in the stands.
The Rebirth: No because that's just the way it is, before Lampard, Ferdinand etc who else was there? and how long ago was it? Ince? before him Paul Allen? Brooking? We just had a batch of great players at one time, which we've not had since. You guys tried to nick Oscar Borg from us and Arsenal tried to get another one of our youngsters so the talent is still coming just not in a batch like those guys.
claretnblueglasses: It was insane that we produced so much quality in such a short period (as you did in the early 90's) but that can't carry on consistently I guess. Hopefully a new generation to come through soon.
WHUJohn: Not worried, good footballer don't grow on trees and it's just coincidental that good crops come through all at once. We do still produce good footballers though, no club has produced more footballers to go on and become professional at any level than us and that's something we should be proud of. Instead many just focus on the Ferdinand, Lampards and Carricks of this world and the cream..
mywhufc: Are you boys worried about your youth policy.
Foreign players available cheaper than championship players, but that could be unrealitic prices lower league clubs put on their players. Supporters/owners demanding instant success means the days of youngsters making it at prem clubs will be harder.
Nearly Every prem clubs youth policy's need looking at.
DaveWHU1964: No. It's the way things are. That crop we produced around '99 were a similar batch to yours of a few years earlier. It's a once in a generation thing for a club. Some clubs never do it. It's why we both remember those FA Youth Cup winning teams so fondly. Besides the way the likes of Chelsea snap up any and every young kid nowadays makes it almost impossible to replicate.
Stepney: I am not overly concerned because if we do ever manage to produce anyone good then after briefly tasting the fruits of their ability they will just go to a bigger club (see Ferdinand, Lampard, Carrick and Defoe above who have all spent their best years away from Upton Park). Until we can hang onto players then its not worth worrying about. Yes its a nice feeling to produce 'homegrown' players but what's the point if they will just go and play for your rivals? I would also like to add that this 'Academy of football' tag we have is laughable at times. Yes we did have a good Academy once upon a time, but not right now. Everything goes in cycles. Now its Southamptons turn. Maybe one day we will produce good youth players again but we certainly don't have a god-given right to produce them just because it says 'Academy of Football' near the dugout.
Het-Field: I think the time afforded to younger players in the Premiership is at a premium these days. During the period in which football was gradually going global, there was still great room for youngsters to ply their trade at the top level. The pre-Bosman era almost demanded youngsters to step up, as they had to play in European competition, as the extra foreigners had to sit in the stands. In 1995 Sir Alex was able to dump a large part of his 1992-1995 squad, and win the double with a group of very talented youngsters. If Van Gaal tried that, his team would be beaten time and time again. West Ham had youth in spades. And even today the likes of Tomkins, and Noble are part of the team. However, i dont think it is seen as prudent anymore to vest mass faith in youth players. Hence, they spend the bulk of their time on loan, or in the stands.
Q10: Which XI would you like to see your team field against us?
prophet:marginal: The one that started the last match, but, given Kouyate's injury, I'd give Poyet a chance in his place.
Romford: Same starters v Liverpool apart from injured Kouyate...bring in Amalfitano
Monkeybubbles: The same team that everybody else has said. Wish Carroll was fit, though, that'd be interesting.
arlhe: I'd like to see the same team as started against Liverpool. Unfortunately Kouyate's out and whoever replaces him won't have the same impact in the middle of the park. I'd like to see Poyet given a chance but that won't happen so I'd go for Zarate.
richneal: No idea. I'd just like to see an entertaining match, so a team that knows how to trap, pass and shoot would be nice.
Stepney: The same 11 that played against Liverpool with Poyet in instead of Kayoute (assuming poyet is available)
Hambrosia Stu: I'm in two minds.... the injured Kouyate needs replacing. Part of me would play the same 11 and system as last time, re-jig the midfield to have Song at the base of the diamond, and bring young Poyet in, as the only change. But I'm coming around to the idea of bringing Collins in, as the one change, to make a back 3. We do need to stop your attack, so I wouldn't blame Sam for going for the latter
Romford: Same starters v Liverpool apart from injured Kouyate...bring in Amalfitano
Monkeybubbles: The same team that everybody else has said. Wish Carroll was fit, though, that'd be interesting.
arlhe: I'd like to see the same team as started against Liverpool. Unfortunately Kouyate's out and whoever replaces him won't have the same impact in the middle of the park. I'd like to see Poyet given a chance but that won't happen so I'd go for Zarate.
richneal: No idea. I'd just like to see an entertaining match, so a team that knows how to trap, pass and shoot would be nice.
Stepney: The same 11 that played against Liverpool with Poyet in instead of Kayoute (assuming poyet is available)
Hambrosia Stu: I'm in two minds.... the injured Kouyate needs replacing. Part of me would play the same 11 and system as last time, re-jig the midfield to have Song at the base of the diamond, and bring young Poyet in, as the only change. But I'm coming around to the idea of bringing Collins in, as the one change, to make a back 3. We do need to stop your attack, so I wouldn't blame Sam for going for the latter
Q11: Finally, your predictions for the match?
DaveWHU1964: 2-1 either way. Hopefully ours. We have a chance.
Danny's Dyer Acting: 2-0 to the Northern United. You're shaky but those strikers.....
ironsean: 2-1
Clucking Bell: 3-2 to us
richneal: No idea what the result will be.My biggest fear is a defensive bore-fest, I just want to see good football between both teams
kitthehammer: Man Utd 2 whu 1 (head) Man Utd 3 whu 5 (heart lol)
Albie Beck: It could be anything but I'm going for 1 - 3
Danny's Dyer Acting: 2-0 to the Northern United. You're shaky but those strikers.....
ironsean: 2-1
Clucking Bell: 3-2 to us
richneal: No idea what the result will be.My biggest fear is a defensive bore-fest, I just want to see good football between both teams
kitthehammer: Man Utd 2 whu 1 (head) Man Utd 3 whu 5 (heart
lol)Albie Beck: It could be anything but I'm going for 1 - 3
Over dramatic much.