Pardew confident of keeping Argentinian stars

WEST HAM boss Alan Pardew emerged from a meeting with Kia Joorabchian confident Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano will remain at Upton Park.

Joorabchian helped bring the Argentina duo to the club before the transfer window closed and also fronted a consortium whose proposed takeover was not completed.

With Eggert Magnusson set to be installed as chairman, there appeared to be a possibility of Tevez and Mascherano leaving when the window reopens next month, but Pardew met the Iranian-born businessman Joorabchian this week to discuss the players’ futures.

“I think they are both likely to stay,” said Pardew. “My meeting with Kia was constructive. He showed he has a motivation for the two guys to be a success here, as I do, and we hope that is the case.”

Striker Tevez has made more of an impact than Mascherano since his arrival but reacted badly to being substituted against Sheffield United last weekend. However, he has since apologised and Pardew has been impressed with the player’s attitude since the incident and could select him for Sunday’s trip to Everton. He insists both players will eventually be major successes at Upton Park.

“Quality players get round it in the end. Tevez is finding his route and I think Mascherano will too,” he said.