Alan Pardew has admitted that Dean Ashton and Matthew
Etherington are facing a race against time to be fit for
tomorrow's FA Cup final.
The injured pair have been receiving round the clock treatment
during the build-up to our momentous clash against Liverpool at the
Millennium Stadium, but Pards has revealed that both are still yet
to face fitness tests.
"Unfortunately, both Matty and Deano didn't train today
(Friday) and I have to admit that is a worrying sign for me at this
stage of our preparation," says the Hammers boss.
"They will travel with us to Cardiff this afternoon and we
will give both of them every chance to prove their fitness right up
until I name the team tomorrow, but I am certainly facing the
possibility of having to plan without them."
[QUOTE]"I want our fans to use the occasion as a celebration of our entire campaign, because it has been a tremendous experience for everyone involved with West Ham United"[/QUOTE]
Despite the ominous situation facing two of his key players,
Pards insists that confidence is high among the camp and has a
rallying message for Hammers fans everywhere ahead of what will
hopefully be one of the greatest occasions in the Club's
history.
"Everyone here is in fantastic spirits and we had a fantastic
session this morning," he says. "I know that my players
are in the perfect frame of mind for the game and will be as
prepared as they can possibly be at 3.00pm on Saturday.
"We hope that everyone travelling to Cardiff has a safe
journey and that those who are staying behind at home enjoy the
occasion as much as they can. I really do feel for those fans
without tickets. I've had some real heart-rending letters from
people who are not going and I reckon we could probably fill the
Millennium Stadium twice over. Hopefully, if all goes well, we will
see everyone on Monday at a victory parade.
"As for the fans who will be there tomorrow, I am sure
they'll make it an atmosphere to remember. I've heard so
many stories about the 1991 semi-final, when the fans sang
throughout the second-half despite being 4-0 down and, whatever
happens on the pitch this weekend, I really hope our crowd take
that same attitude.
"Have no doubt, we are going there focused and determined to
win the trophy, but the players deserve wonderful support win or
lose after their efforts this season. I want our fans to use the
occasion as a celebration of our entire campaign, because it has
been a tremendous experience for everyone involved with West Ham
United."