Hammers back in Dyer straits

DAVID SULLIVAN, the West Ham co-owner, was in pleading mood before kick-off.

The club he had bought just a few weeks ago was in such dire financial straits that it was imperative for supporters to rush to the shop and buy as much claret and blue merchandise as they could carry home. And then – and he doesn’t appear to be joking here – sign up for a West Ham credit card.

This result will hardly have had the Upton Park faithful queuing round the block after the final whistle but Sullivan had already identified a scapegoat. His name is Kieron Dyer and he came on as a substitute in the 47th minute with the score 2-0 to Bolton.