Habib Beye Watch at West Ham

An odd team selection stacked the odds against Newcastle before the match kicked off at Upton Park yesterday. Keegan bemoaned the lack of cover at full back before the transfer window slammed shut and it is testimony to Keegan's common sense approach that it is exactly that position which is causing instability in the first eleven.

It was a case of make-do and mend with Cacapa pressed into midfield duties. To our minds, the Brazilian would have been better used in a centre half threesome or pushing Collocini / Taylor out to right back where both have played before. This would have left Edgar to play left-back meaning N'Zogbia could play further up the pitch. No doubt that injuries have hurt the current squad, but with Milner having departed and no proper cover in central midfield or full back, the team struggled to cope with West Ham's new look attack, Di Michelle proving a constant thorn in our side.

Owen again came away with some credit and a fine goal in front of the England manager. Had he scored with a reflex header things could have been different. A point would have been unfair on West Ham however who deserved the points.

Habib Beye missed out again but is due to return to full training this week according to various reports. It remains to be seen if he will return in time to face Mr Jiminez's favourite team on Wednesday, a game which might come too soon in Beye's rehabilitation. God knows, the team and defence in particular could do with a fit Habib Beye!