Source: SKY_Sports
Parker pens new contract
Coveted West Ham midfielder Scott Parker has signed a new long-term deal which will keep him at the Hammers until the end of the 2012/13 season.[LNB] The 28-year-old was linked with a switch away from Upton Park in the January transfer window after West Ham owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson was hit by the credit crunch.[LNB]But Parker - who has been a virtual ever-present this term - is happy to stay at a club where he feels wanted, especially by boss Gianfranco Zola.[LNB]He told the club's official website: "I am very happy, pleased and excited - especially after all the speculation in the transfer window - that I can now put that to rest and sign a new-long term contract.[LNB]"In the last few weeks, the way the club is going and the direction that the manager and the board want to go is something I want to follow.[LNB]"By signing my new contract, it says that I want to do this as well. It also says a lot about West Ham, there has been a lot of negative things written, saying there was a crisis and all of that.[LNB]Great thing"This shows that West Ham are in a position to keep their players when others want them and as a player and for the fans, that is a great thing.[LNB]"The manager showed a real desire to keep me. He sees me as a massive part of the squad and that meant a lot to me, especially when there were things being written everywhere. So I am delighted to sign."[LNB]Zola was delighted to secure Parker's services on a new long-term deal, saying: "This is great news. Scott is an excellent player and it is good to have him at our service for more years.[LNB]"We have a long-term view, and we need time to set up our project and give it a chance to grow. The club is sticking to this policy and it is brilliant. It means we are really serious about everything that we have said.[LNB]"When I first sat with (CEO) Scott Duxbury we said we want to do this in the right way and everything is going along so well.[LNB]"Scott, (technical director) Gianluca (Nani) and I are working very well together and it is the key for the good results we are getting. Everyone is playing their part, not just the players and the technical staff. They have been brilliant."[LNB]Duxbury added: "Scott Parker is a hugely important player and his belief in the club's vision is a fantastic boost for everyone at West Ham United.[LNB]Tremendous"He has been tremendous this season, not only with his individual performances but for his example and leadership to the talented youngsters we have coming through. [LNB]"Added to the absolute assurances Gianfranco has given fans this week about his long-term commitment, this agreement is a further sign that we can all look forward. [LNB]"Today's news underlines that a lot of nonsense has been written and said about this club in recent weeks. It is clear that even if external forces try to destabilise us, nothing will stand in the way of our football project and our efforts to bring success to this club and our supporters."[LNB]Meanwhile, West Ham reserve players Ashley Miller and Tony Stokes have joined Hungarian side Ujpest FC on a week's trial ahead of possible loan moves until the end of the season.[LNB]Ujpest FC club director Istvan Salloi told Nemzeti Sport: "We'll see what they can produce but this is very positive that their arrival is the quick result of our relationships in London.[LNB]"I hope the duo will stay with us and if they sign a contract then it will be a positive message about Hungary."[LNB]
