Don't Tap Up Neill

West Ham issued the following official statement this evening:

"West Ham United would like to make it clear that Lucas Neill is a contracted West Ham United player and that we have received no approach from any club for his services including Newcastle United.

We are astonished by reports today that a Premier League manager has claimed contact with one of our contracted players.

As stated on 31 December by CEO Scott Duxbury, talks over a new contract with Lucas Neill - who remains committed to West Ham United - are due to be held in due course when appropriate for all parties."

So in other words, "We know that someone has been tapping up one of our players and we are not happy about it".

This lead Newcastle United to release this following official statement:

"With regard to Lucas Neill, West Ham United has made it clear he is a player they value as a highly important member of their squad and who they have no desire to sell.

“Newcastle United respect West Ham’s position and will therefore not be pursuing the matter.”

In other words, "We admit it. Please don't report us"