West Ham Troubles Continue

Today's Observer has a long article on the tensions that are tearing West Ham apart.

In brief they highlight the gambling problems, which has seen three players seek professional help. Not only have the players been getting off the coach to away games owing each other huge sums of money, and presumably bearing grudges, but have been involved in all night games.

There are cliques within the squad. "Nigel Reo-Coker, Bobby Zamora, Marlon Harewood and Shaun Newton all hang out together. And Reo-Coker is constantly saying he is too good for the club, that he should be at Man United or Arsenal." There is also apparently huge resentment at the wages earned by Curbishley's new signings, particularly Matthew Upson and Lucas Neil.

Curbishley is said to have 'given up' on some of his players. 'He often stays in his office with his assistants. Sometimes we see him, other times we don't,' said an insider. As for Magnusson, the players 'think he is clueless and a bit lost.'