West Ham United Football Club News

• Nickname:Hammers
• Founded:1895
• Manager:Sam Allardyce

• Ground:Upton Park
• Capacity:35,595

Pardew steps up winger hunt

11 Aug 2006 - 09:46:46

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West Ham United boss Alan Pardew is planning to step up his search for a new winger after Matthew Etherington was ruled out for the first month of the season.

Etherington suffered a knee injury in a training ground collision with Marlon Harewood, leaving the Hammers short of cover on the left flank.

"Matty is doubtful for the first three games for sure. It is a big blow," said Pardew.

"He was fantastic for us last year. We felt he really progressed, almost to the verge of the England squad, and he looked terrific in pre-season so it was an unfortunate blow."

He added: "I have made it quite obvious I need a wide player in the group. I want a player who is of the same calibre as Matt Etherington and Yossi Benayoun.

"We have had a few routes closed on us. There are still a few options but I want to make sure I bring in the right player."