Source: Team_Talk
Big Sam expects commitment
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is confident the likes of Scott Parker will remain committed to the club if they do not seal moves away this month.[LNB] Robert Green, Parker and Carlton Cole were all expected to move following the club's relegation from the Premier League but the trio remain at Upton Park ahead of the Hammers' Championship opener against Cardiff on Sunday.[LNB]They could yet move on before the end of the transfer window, but Allardyce expects them to give everything to the club's cause should they stay put.[LNB]"They are West Ham players and they are contracted to West Ham," he said.[LNB]"Their commitment has to be to the West Ham shirt because that is where their contract lies.[LNB]"Of course, like everybody at this stage of the season, the madhouse is in full flow. Speculation is all over the place on a constant basis which is why this is one of the most difficult periods for a manager in an entire season.[LNB]"All we can do is try to focus on what is the most important thing and that is the Cardiff game on Sunday, and for us to try to go out and set a marker on how we want to be by trying to win the game.[LNB]"I will absolutely field my strongest side and try to start how we mean to go on. That would be great.[LNB]"I would imagine we will grow and get better as the season goes on as we will get to know each other better.[LNB]"A lot of players have left and fringe players from last year have a better opportunity to have a major stake in the team this year."[LNB]Parker was the most likely departure having earned a recall to the England squad last season while going on to be named the football writers' player of the year.[LNB]Allardyce admitted earlier this week that Parker would not be part of his plans.[LNB]And asked if his England trio were now less determined to leave, Allardyce added: "I think that it is always where you want to play, at the highest level.[LNB]"I hope all the players are enjoying their training and looking forward to a new season. I certainly am, and they have got less to worry about than me![LNB]"If I am looking forward to it they should be doubly excited about the season starting on Sunday."
