1) Awful season, is it what you expected or are you surprised?
It’s not been especially awful, look at this season compared to last. Fair enough, it’s been mediocrity defined and we’ve had our fair share of injuries, as well as a fair few bad results but it’s been steady, we’ve got the results and hopefully we can still finish above Spurs! I’m not surprised to be fair, I knew it would be better than last season, many thought we would be pushing for Europe but it takes time to steady the ship.
2) How is Alan Curbishley being viewed now, are the problems just injuries or are they the manager, is he one to keep?
The opinion on Curbishley is mostly divided. West Ham fans are typically ambitions and are dissatisfied with finishing tenth every season, wanting more. It’s possible, with the players we have , all fit at once we have a good squad. His signings didn’t help – as if it wasn’t obvious enough that players like Dyer, Bellamy, Parker, even Neill would all be out for extensive periods of time. It was mentioned at the time of the players signing and this has disgruntled some fans.
3) Are you expecting a cull of players and more signings this summer?
We have a lot of deadwood in the squad. Players like Davenport or Quashie have been passengers this season and there’s no need for them at the club. It wouldn’t hurt to get rid of a few names, too, players like John Pantsil or Louis Boa Morte are good back up, but frankly aren’t good enough to match our ambitions. Lucas Neill hasn’t been the model captain this season, either…
4) How has your new owner settled in, are the fans pleased with him?
He’s not made too much of an impression, in all honesty. He’s got the cash and an honest way of going about things, I’m happy to have him there. Any occasional pressure of Curbishley is however unnecessary – this especially annoys me. The way City have handled Eriksson particularly made me disillusioned with the state of modern football now.
5) Which of your players has been the outstanding contributor this season?
Matthew Upson has come along leaps and bounds, he’s crucial to the team now. Dean Ashton looks to have nestled back into the team fairly well, and Rob Green is another crucial figure to the team. It’s hard to tell considering the amount of injuries – most of our key players have been out for at least a month each over the course of the season. Overall, I’m most impressed with Scotty Parker. Always tries his best, on his day he’s a world beater.
6) Are you surprised at Villa being where they are and what is your opinion of us as a club?
Not surprised really – MON looks to be the right manager for you. With the right players, all young and energetic, taking the club forward – e.g. Ashley Young, Agbonlahor, you look to have the right mix of experience and willing. I have no negative feelings towards the club, all of my visits to Villa Park have all been positive so I have good memories of being the superior claret and blue side… especially three years ago when we beat you 4-0 at Upton Park, and the FA Cup Semi Final at your place against Boro.
7) Who in the Villa team do you fear on Saturday?
Maaaarleeene! We’ve seen how deadly Harewood can be, though the main threat in my opinion comes from the two I mentioned – Young and Agbonlahor.
8) What is your prediction for the game?
Last game of the season so we’ll be up for it – 2-1 West Ham.
Thanks to Henry from Vital West Ham
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