WHU Web Item - Zola

Zola to consider future
Italian could walk after defeat to Stoke
Last updated: 27th March 2010
SSN

Gianfranco Zola will consider his future overnight after West Ham's 1-0
defeat to Stoke. West Ham equalled an unwanted 43-year record on Saturday as
Ricardo Fuller's 69th minute strike saw the Potters inflict a sixth straight
defeat on the Hammers at Upton Park. Only a better goal difference is
keeping the East Londoners out of the drop-zone, but third bottom Hull City
- who beat Fulham to go level with Zola's side - have a game in hand on
their relegation rivals. Speculation has been rife about the Italian's
future throughout the week and the Hammers tactician has hinted he could
leave the club. "I don't want to talk about it (leaving), I'm so
disappointed about today's game - that is not in my mind now and the rest we
will see," Zola told Sky Sports. West Ham's 3-1 defeat to Wolves on Monday
saw co-owner David Sullivan describe the performance as "pathetic" and
"shambolic", but Zola thought his side's latest loss was an improvement from
the midweek result. "I think it was better than the way we played the other
day, unfortunately it wasn't enough to win the game but it was better than
the game midweek. "In the first-half we played well but in the second-half
it was a pity as Fuller's goal changed the game."
Mido replaced Benni McCarthy in the West Ham starting line-up on Saturday
and the on-loan Egyptian striker squandered the Hammers' best chance of the
match when he fluffed his lines from six yards in the 35th minute. Zola
admitted he spoke to the former Tottenham forward about the miss and gave
the 27-year-old the benefit of the doubt.
"He told me it bounced too high so he couldn't convert it and that was
unfortunate," he added.

Daily WHUFC News - 27th March 2010

Upson up for the fight
WHUFC.com
The skipper said the squad have to stay strong and get the job done for the
fans this afternoon
27.03.2010

Matthew Upson has said it is up to the players to give the fans something to
shout about when Stoke City arrive at the Boleyn Ground this afternoon. The
club captain was speaking while taking part in a special club Community
Sports Trust event with local youngsters at the club's Beckton training
centre. Upson and manager Gianfranco Zola gave up an afternoon to work with
the kids in the Barclays-backed initiative on Thursday - a full report of
which will appear on whufc.com and in the matchday programme soon.
While the skipper knows the club are in desperate need of a result, he said
the players would not shirk the challenge in front of them. "I am glad and
happy to be at a club that has that desire and passion from the supporters.
"We have to deal with it. It is a test for us players, we need to be strong
and focused on what we are good at and what we are doing. The fans are
entitled to their point of view and we have to deliver for them to get
excited. That is our responsibility."

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Daprela defiant
WHUFC.com
Fabio Daprela is ready for Wolverhampton Wanderers after making an
encouraging start to his career
21.03.2010

As Barclays Premier League introductions go, Fabio Daprela has surely
enjoyed a tougher start to his top-flight career than any other player.
After making his league debut for West Ham United at Chelsea last weekend,
the Switzerland Under-19 left-back kept his place for Saturday's trip to
Arsenal - the same club he made his first-team bow against in the FA Cup
back in January. While the Hammers have fallen to defeats on all three
occasions, the teenager - signed from Zurich's Grasshopper-Club in his
homeland last summer - has caught the eye with his tenacious tackling and
willingness to run with the ball. One such run ended in what Daprela
believes should have been a second penalty for West Ham at the Emirates
Stadium - following the spot-kick awarded when Guille Franco was impeded by
Thomas Vermaelen. "I was running through and I was caught by Alex Song. He
didn't get the ball and he touched my ankle. I will look again at the video,
but I think yes, it was a penalty."
Unfortunately, referee Martin Atkinson thought otherwise and, with goals
from Denilson and Cesc Fabregas coming either side of Alessandro Diamanti's
missed spot-kick and Vermaelen's sending-off, West Ham fell to a 2-0 defeat.
With the Gunners down to ten men a minute before half-time, Daprela felt
Gianfranco Zola's side could, and perhaps should, have got at least a point
from their trip to north London. "It was nice to play in the Emirates
Stadium against Arsenal, that was great, but the result was not so good. I
think we should have passed the ball more when we were playing against ten
players. We didn't do that, and Arsenal played well with ten men. "I think
when we got the penalty, if we had scored, it would have transformed the
game. It would have been possible for us to win the game. With a player
more, we planned at half-time to pass the ball and we thought we could still
win, but they kept the ball well and made it very difficult for us. "It's
been a great experience. It's nice to play against the big teams - Arsenal,
Chelsea and then Arsenal again. I think I have done myself justice, but I
can do better."
Having faced two of the so-called 'Big Four' on his first two league
appearances, Daprela faces an arguably bigger test when Wolverhampton
Wanderers come to the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday evening. West Ham go into the
game a point behind Mick McCarthy's side, and three points above 18th-placed
Burnley. As such, a win would provide a huge boost to confidence, as well as
three vital points. "It's very, very important that we win. Now we must get
three points. We have to win. We are good as a team and we are confident
ahead of these games with Wolves and Stoke, but it's very important that we
now win these games. "It's also very important that the fans are behind us.
If they can make a great noise then they can make it very difficult for
Wolves and easier for us to win."

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Williams wants his 'Hammer Time'
WHUFC.com
Danny Williams is determined to end his career on a high when he fights at
the Boleyn Ground on 15 May
26.03.2010

Danny Williams is determined that West Ham United fan Kevin 'The Hammer'
Mitchell does not hog the limelight when the pair appear at the Boleyn
Ground on 15 May. The 'Brixton Bomber' - who once knocked out Mike Tyson in
2004 - will battle Sam Sexton for the Commonwealth Heavyweight title belt on
Mitchell's undercard, but the 36-year-old insisted he would not be playing
second fiddle to anyone. While Mitchell, who will fight Australian Michael
Katsidis for the WBO Interim World Lightweight Championship, will
undoubtedly be the main attraction on the night, Williams is determined to
take his share on what will be his farewell appearance before retirement.
"I've got my mojo back for this one. I've been taking some new supplements
and I've been flying in training. I feel like a new man and everyone is
going to see that on May 15. This fight is going to be my last one and I'm
going to give it my all on the night. "I've always wanted to be known as a
courageous fighter like my hero Rocky Marciano, and I'll continue in that
vein when I fight Sexton."
While Williams is in upbeat mood, Sexton, 25, is also confident of success.
"I'm glad Williams is saying he is back to his best because I've always
wanted to beat the best of Danny. It will need to be some mojo to beat me,
because the way I'm feeling right now there is no way that Danny can beat
me. "There will be no fairytale ending for him this time. I'm coming to take
his title and send him into retirement by knocking him out."
Williams was not present when the 'Hammer Time' event was officially
announced at a packed Boleyn Ground press conference last week, sparking
speculation that he might withdraw. However, the boxer - who has compiled a
48-8-1 professional record - explained that he had been contemplating
whether or not to take a European title shot against former Olympic champion
Audley Harrison in early April. "I got offered the fight, but I decided not
to take it because it was only three weeks' notice. The defeat I suffered
against Harrison [a three round TKO back in 2007] really hurt my pride, and
I've always wanted revenge. I took that fight on five days' notice, but
people don't remember that, only the fact I lost. "I didn't think that three
weeks was long enough to prepare for Harrison, and I didn't want the same
thing to happen again, so I opted for Sexton instead."

Aside from Mitchell/Katsidis and Williams/Sexton, Hammer Time will also
feature Olympic Gold medallist James DeGale fighting for the WBA
International Super-Middleweight Championship, unbeaten heavyweight Derek
Chisora and Olympic pugilists Frankie Gavin and Billy Joe Saunders.

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Da Costa waiting for chance
WHUFC.com
Back after a three-match suspension, Manuel da Costa hopes to get the chance
to prove his worth
26.03.2010

Manuel da Costa has learned the "big lesson" of a tough three-match
suspension and is hoping to take that frustration out on Stoke City this
Saturday. The Portuguese international defender has not just been working on
his rapidly-improving English but has also been putting in the hours on the
training field to ensure he is ready when called upon again. Da Costa was
sent off for violent conduct in a reserve match at the end of last month,
which meant a ban for the trips to Chelsea and Arsenal, and Tuesday's visit
of Wolverhampton Wanderers. Available again, Da Costa may get a chance
against Stoke in light of James Tomkins' foot injury, although Gianfranco
Zola also has Danny Gabbidon available, along with the options of the
versatile Jonathan Spector or Radoslav Kovac at centre-back. Should Da Costa
get the call, he is pledging to be up for the fight - but in a controlled
way. "I am fit to play. My body is good and everything is OK. It has been
hard to not play and to sit out for three games was too long. It is
difficult when you have to come to watch the matches at the stadium and you
can't play when you want to. "This suspension has been a big lesson for me.
To get a red card in the reserves and be punished in the first team is
something that I will learn from and not do in the future. Now I know and I
am here to work for the team first. I am working for Saturday and will give
everything if I get my chance."
Da Costa would relish the chance to line up alongside Matthew Upson, as he
has loved every minute of playing in the Premier League since his switch
from ACF Fiorentina last summer. "I like to play in English football with
passion and in a hard way. I am big and I like to use my strength. "Now with
the situation we are in maybe I can help. It is up to the manager of course
and the priority is to win this game on Saturday. We have to fight in a fair
way. We have seven matches left and every game has to be a battle for us."

Da Costa is confident the team can survive the drop but is under no
illusions about the seriousness of the situation. A UEFA Champions League
performer with Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven, he is also firmly of the belief
that the club can realistically aspire to better. It is a case of first
things first, however. "I know this team will not repeat this season again.
We need to survive and I can see in the squad that everyone will make this
happen. We have top players and we just have to make sure we stay in the
division. Then, next season we can make up for it. We will have this memory
and when you want to get somewhere, you have to remember where you have
been."

He has no doubts the fans will be behind the team against the Potters but
understood that emotions were high after Tuesday's disappointment against
Wolves. "The crowd will be with us on Saturday. I know that and we have to
give them something. We need to make sure they are with us from the start to
the finish and then if it is not enough they can tell us at the end. "That
is OK. We are paid to do this job. I know it is difficult for the fans to
come to watch and see us not play well. They are West Ham in their body and
in their mind and they live everything by what they see. But we can make
them proud."
While he is working hard on his game and impressing the Hammers faithful, Da
Costa, who was born in France to a Moroccan mother and Portuguese father,
has also done much to settle off the field into life in another new country.
He already has playing experiences in the Netherlands and Italy. "I love it
in England. I have my family, my friends here when I need them. London is a
good place and it is close for me to get back to France. It is a good life
and when I go to the training ground I am happy because I feel at home. The
players are welcoming and the staff have all been good to me. "
Still only 23, Da Costa is particularly grateful to Gianfranco Zola for his
close attention and help as he has settled into his new life. "The manager
has been good to me. I have a good relationship and so does everyone - but
he expects us all to keep improving. "He has been working with me on my
technique this week. He does something different with all of us defenders.
Sometimes he will spend time after training with me, sometimes with Upson,
sometimes with Tomkins, sometimes with Gabbidon. He gives us all of his time
and I am grateful."

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Stoke City match preview
WHUFC.com
All the early team news and background for Saturday's major meeting with the
Potters at the Boleyn
26.03.2010

Barclays Premier League
West Ham United v Stoke City
Boleyn Ground
Saturday 27 March 2010
3pm
Referee: Andre Marriner

• West Ham United welcome Stoke City for a huge encounter that sees them
looking to arrest a run of five straight defeats and move clear of the
Barclays Premier League drop zone.

• Depending on results elsewhere, a home win could move 17th-placed West Ham
six points above of trouble with a far superior goal difference to the clubs
in the bottom three. Stoke are 12th and on 36 points, with the club
believing one more win would guarantee survival this season.

• Stoke manager Tony Pulis, whose side have not won in five matches, was at
the Boleyn to watch the 3-1 defeat by Wolverhampton Wanderers last Tuesday.

• The Hammers can also take comfort from five wins in their last six
meetings with the Potters, although they lost the reverse fixture earlier
this season. In Stoke's favour is an unbeaten run of four away matches in
the Premier League.

• The visitors have been beaten in only one of their seven games away at
sides in the top-flight's current bottom ten - although five have been
drawn.

• Stoke have kept only one clean sheet in their last seven games.

• This is the 66th league meeting between the two sides. West Ham have won
26, Stoke have won 24 and there have been 15 draws.

Last meeting

• The last meeting between the two sides was on 17 October 2009. James
Beattie's only two goals this season to date were enough to cancel out
Matthew Upson's 34th-minute header. Upson was to receive a hefty blow to the
head late in the contest courtesy of a challenge with Robert Huth.

The teams that day were:

Stoke City: Sorensen, Huth, Abdoulaye Faye, Collins, Shawcross, Delap
(Lawrence 68), Etherington, Whitehead, Diao (Whelan 78), Fuller, Beattie
(Kitson 84)
Subs not used: Simonsen, Tuncay, Wilkinson, Higginbotham
Goals: Beattie 11 pen, 69

West Ham United: Green, Upson, Ilunga, Tomkins, Kovac (Stanislas 83), Noble,
Behrami, Faubert, Collison (Franco 88), Cole, Diamanti (Hines 79)
Subs not used: Kurucz, Spector, Da Costa, Jimenez
Goal: Upson 34

Last time out

Tuesday 23 March 2010
West Ham United 1-3 Wolverhampton Wanderers
West Ham United: Green, Upson, Tomkins (Spector 45), Daprela, Parker, Kovac
(Stanislas 45), Behrami, Faubert, Cole, Diamanti, McCarthy (Franco 71)
Subs not used: Stech, Noble, Ilan, Mido
Goal: Franco 90

Saturday 20 March 2010
Stoke City 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur
Stoke City: Sorensen, Huth, Abdoulaye Faye, Collins, Higginbotham, Whelan
(Sidibe 84), Delap, Etherington, Whitehead (sent off 49), Kitson (Tuncay
84), Fuller
Subs not used: Begovic, Lawrence, Pugh, Wilkinson, Moult
Goal: Etherington 64 pen

Referee

• Saturday's referee is Andre Marriner, who was the man in the middle for
the Barclays Asia Trophy defeat by Tottenham Hotspur in Beijing on 29 July.

• He also took charge of the 3-2 defeat by Liverpool on 19 September, the
2-2 draw with Sunderland on 31 October, when Radoslav Kovac and Kenwyne
Jones were both sent off, and the 3-1 defeat by Bolton Wanderers on Tuesday
15 December. The last time he refereed the Hammers was the 1-1 draw at
Portsmouth on 26 January, meaning in five matches this season including that
summer date with Spurs, the Hammers have yet to win.

• He has twice officiated Stoke matches this season, 1-1 draws at Everton
and Wigan Athletic on 4 October 2009 and 9 February 2010 respectively.

• Marriner began refereeing in 1992, progressing through the Birmingham
Amateur Football League and Southern League to take his place as a Football
League assistant referee in 2000.

• Marriner became a Football League referee in 2003, before taking charge of
his first Premier League fixture, Charlton Athletic versus Norwich City, the
following year.

• The official joined the Select Group of officials in 2005 and is now on
the list of FIFA international referees.

Old boys

• West Ham first-team coach Kevin Keen made 201 league and cup appearances
for Stoke between October 1994 and September 2000, scoring 12 goals. Keen, a
former West Ham apprentice, made 279 league and cup appearances for the
Hammers between March 1984 and July 1993, scoring 30 goals.

• Stoke winger Matthew Etherington made 195 appearances for West Ham between
August 2003 and January 2009, scoring 18 goals. He joined the Potters on 8
January 2009, having moved to the Boleyn Ground from Tottenham Hotspur
five-and-a-half years previously.

• Among the other players who have represented both clubs are Clive Clarke,
Bob Dixon, Sir Geoff Hurst, Lawrie Leslie, Nicky Morgan, Henri Camara and
Frank Richardson.

• West Ham are next in action eight days after Saturday's game when they go
to Everton on Easter Sunday for a 4pm kick-off. Stoke's next fixture sees
them take on Hull City at home on Saturday.

Head to head

Last six meetings

17 October 2009 - Stoke City 2-1 West Ham United
2 May 2009 - Stoke City 0-1 West Ham United
28 December 2008 - West Ham United 2-1 Stoke City
19 April 2005 - Stoke City 0-1 West Ham United
19 October 2004 - West Ham United 2-0 Stoke City
24 April 2004 - Stoke City 0-2 West Ham United

Overall record v Stoke City (all competitions) W 31 D 18 L 28

West Ham United

• Although he missed a penalty against Arsenal a week ago, Alessandro
Diamanti's eight goals in all competitions has left him just one behind top
scorer Carlton Cole.

• West Ham have scored 38 goals this season in the league with 15 different
players on target. Carlton Cole leads the way (nine), with Alessandro
Diamanti (seven), Guille Franco (four) and Matthew Upson (three) next in
line. Jack Collison, Mark Noble, Junior Stanislas (two each), Ilan, Manuel
da Costa, the departed Luis Jimenez, Zavon Hines, Radoslav Kovac, Valon
Behrami, Julien Faubert and Scott Parker have also registered. An own-goal
from Everton's Tony Hibbert completes the tally.

• Parker has been cautioned nine times this season and Faubert, Franco,
Kovac and Noble five each. Cole and Collison are on four yellow cards, but
will not be suspended if they receive a fifth as the FA disciplinary
deadline has passed. Should any player reach ten cautions before the second
Sunday in April, they will receive a two-mach suspension.

• Only Robert Green has played in every league game for the club this
season. He is on a run of 118 successive league starts.

• Kieron Dyer scored twice for the Hammers reserves, and was the clear man
of the match, in a 5-2 win against a visiting Stoke side on 24 November.

Stoke City

• Stoke have beaten their record for season ticket renewals ahead of the
2010/11 campaign with 16,000 sold

Team news

• Gianfranco Zola could recall Jordan Spence, Danny Gabbidon, Manuel da
Costa and Kieron Dyer into his matchday plans but will be without Herita
Ilunga (tendon injury), James Tomkins (ankle) and Jack Collison (knee).

• Da Costa has missed the last three matches through suspension but will
compete with Gabbidon to replace Tomkins, who was injured in the first half
against Wolves.

• Luis Boa Morte is working hard on his fitness after missing the whole
season to date with a cruciate knee ligament injury suffered last July.

• Zavon Hines will not play again this season with a knee injury.

• Stoke have to do without Dean Whitehead after he was sent off against
Tottenham last time out.

• Ryan Shawcross sat out against Tottenham with an ankle problem despite
being eligible again following a three-match ban for his red card against
Arsenal, when his challenge broke Aaron Ramsey's leg.

• The Potters were already without James Beattie - who scored twice against
the Hammers earlier this season - with a knee injury.

General information

• For ticket information click here. For details on getting to the Boleyn
Ground, click here.

• The weather forecast for this Saturday is rain with temperatures peaking
around the 13C mark.

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Zola steeled for Stoke
WHUFC.com
The manager is fully focused on what needs to be done to reverse the club's
fortunes this weekend
26.03.2010

Gianfranco Zola has backed his players to make amends for the disappointment
of midweek when they take on Stoke City on Saturday afternoon. "We are a
good team," he said. "We are going through a difficult moment. Circumstances
haven't helped us but we need to make sure we show everybody that we are a
good team. Saturday is a good opportunity and we are going to do our best."
The manager will be without James Tomkins and Guille Franco after knocks
suffered in the 3-1 reverse against Wolves on Tuesday but has Danny
Gabbidon, Kieron Dyer and Manuel da Costa, after a three-match ban,
available. "I am going to keep my head down and focus on the job. We are not
happy with the situation and the position we occupy but I can assure
everyone that we are trying hard and we care. Even in difficult conditions
we are trying to find the focus and the concentration to do a good job."
Zola refuted suggestions his players were not up for the fight but conceded
work was required to make sure words were put into practice. "I don't think
they didn't play with passion. They were trying to sort the situation but
more like individuals. "I don't think there is one person in my squad who is
not committed to what we are trying to achieve. We will work on that and
hopefully on Saturday the effort will be as a team."
He also fully expected the fans to back the team, saying "they have tried to
help us" throughout the season and that he had "no complaints" about the
support. Instead he acknowledged it was up to his men to give them something
back, to give them a winning performance. "It is a very important game, we
have to win. Everybody at the club is focused on winning the game. We have
to win the game as a team. It is the most important thing. Honestly, trust
me everyone wants to give 200 per cent but it has to be in the right way."
Zola said he would not shirk his responsibilities. "If I do well, then a lot
of things can happen in a good way for the future," he said, but admitted
that he was only thinking about the present rather than what might be. "We
know the difficulty of the game on Saturday. We know that we will have to
produce a fantastic performance. Let's just play football and put in a good
performance and make it enjoyable for everybody. "That is why I am here and
that is what I am paid to do. At the end of the day we are here and trying
to win for West Ham. I think that is the only thing that matters. "It
doesn't work to look ahead. You have to take it step by step. Stoke is a
massive game and the games we play after will be affected by what we do.
Let's crack on and the rest will follow."

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Penalty woe for U18s
WHUFC.com
A late Bristol City penalty denied West Ham United's U18s an FA Premier
Academy League victory
26.03.2010

A late, late penalty denied West Ham United Under-18s an FA Premier Academy
League victory over Bristol City on Friday. Substitute Ryan Brunt's
95th-minute spot-kick secured a 1-1 draw for the Robins after England U16
winger Matthias Fanimo had slotted the Hammers into a second-half lead. The
penalty left the home side shattered, as Bristol City had, up to then,
created precious little in the way of goalscoring opportunities at a cold
and blustery Little Heath. However, the Hammers lost possession deep inside
the visitors' half, allowing City to break, and the referee pointed to the
spot when Henry Muggeridge went down under Filip Modelski's challenge. Brunt
stepped up and sent Sam Cowler the wrong way from 12 yards. Deputy Academy
Director Paul Hilton, deputising while Tony Carr leads a combined U16/U17
squad at the Tiffany Cup in Washington DC, lamented the nature of the away
side's late equaliser. "I suppose it was two points dropped, in the bigger
picture, especially with conceding the late goal when we had the ball deep
in the attacking corner. We just made a bad decision in trying to create
another chance. "They'll have to learn from it, as that's the harsh reality
of football. They worked very, very hard but didn't make the right choices
at the end and ended up conceding a goal. "On overall reflection, I told the
players they probably deserved a draw, even though I thought we played a lot
better in the second half. We couldn't really get our passing going in the
first half. "They looked a bit of a threat on the break through their
striker Giani Kapika and the wide-right player Joe Lennox, but I'm a little
disappointed we didn't win the game."
With the first-year scholars en route to the United States, West Ham called
upon first-year professionals Olly Lee and Danny Kearns, while schoolboys
Fanimo and Blair Turgott were also handed starting places. Fanimo had
already seen one effort well saved by goalkeeper Lewis Carey - who also
denied Danny Subuola with a smart save - when he ran on to Subuola's through
ball before holding off his marker and stabbing the ball inside the far post
after 72 minutes. At the other end, Cowler was largely redundant, but was in
the right place to repel efforts from the lively Lennox and Brunt, only to
be beaten by the substitute's added-time penalty. A point lifted West Ham -
now unbeaten in five matches - above Fulham into fifth place in the Group A
standings ahead of next Saturday's trip to MK Dons.

West Ham United U18s: Cowler, Modelski, Craig, McNaughton, Driver, Kearns
(Abdulla 46), Turgott, Wearen, Lee (Montano 60), Fanimo, Subuola
Unused subs: Mehmet, Brown, Sanchez

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Keen for Stoke success
WHUFC.com
First-team coach Kevin Keen is targeting a vital victory over his former
club on Saturday afternoon
26.03.2010

Saturday afternoon's visit of Stoke City will be a special moment for West
Ham United first-team coach Kevin Keen. Not only does the fixture present
the Hammers with a chance to gain three vital Barclays Premier League
points, but it will also allow Keen the opportunity to catch up with the
friends he made during six years with the Potters. The 43-year-old is now an
integral part of West Ham's management team, but he remains a popular figure
in the city he called home between October 1994 and September 2000. While he
still has connections at the Britannia Stadium, Keen has told the official
matchday programme how he is desperate to get one over his old pals -
gaining revenge for the 2-1 defeat suffered in the Potteries in October.
"Last year we went and won there and I think, this year, we deserved at
least a draw," he said. "I think we've done quite well there and combated
the way they play and the crowd quite well. Unfortunately it didn't quite go
our way this season. "We need three points. We nicked it last year with
Diego Tristan's deflected goal and it will be another very tough game.
However, I think we've got every chance because they're not in the
relegation fight and I don't think they're going for Europe."
While Keen is fully focused on helping the Hammers to secure an important
victory this weekend, the coach retains a huge amount of respect for Stoke
manager Tony Pulis and his players, including former West Ham winger Matthew
Etherington. An interview with Etherington, crowned Hammer of the Year in
2004, also features in Saturday's programme, while fans can also catch up
with midfielder Radoslav Kovac and former West Ham and England left-back
Chris Powell. Fans can also read the full story of the club's joint bid with
Newham Council to move into the Olympic Stadium following the London Games
in 2012. Benni McCarthy names his Dream Team, while Jordan Spence is Talking
Football and Sergio Sanchez is Learning His Trade. Another Hammer of the
Year, 1988 winner Stewart Robson, is the subject of Where Are They Now?
There is all the latest news from the club's reserve, youth and ladies
teams, while club historian John Helliar brings the past to life. All this,
along with the views of Joint-Chairman David Sullivan and manager Gianfranco
Zola, mean supporters cannot afford to miss picking up a copy of the
official matchday programme on Saturday.

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West Ham v Stoke
BBC.co.uk
Barclays Premier League
Venue: Upton Park Date: Saturday, 27 March 2010 Kick-off: 1500 GMT
Coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio 5 live, local radio, Final Score &
highlights on Match of the Day

TEAM NEWS
West Ham forward Guillermo Franco misses out with an Achilles injury and
defender James Tomkins is sidelined with an ankle problem. Defender Manuel
da Costa is available after suspension, while Danny Gabbidon and Kieron Dyer
are both fit again.
Stoke striker James Beattie could miss the rest of the season following
surgery on his knee. Defender Ryan Shawcross is doubtful with an ankle
problem, while Dean Whitehead is suspended.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----

West Ham

Doubtful: Faubert (hamstring)
Injured: Boa Morte, Collison & Ilunga (all knee), Franco (Achilles), Tomkins
(ankle)

Stoke City

Suspended: Whitehead (one match)
Doubtful: Shawcross (ankle) Injured: Beattie (knee), Diao (calf)

MATCH PREVIEW
There have been few more damaging defeats in the Premier League this season
than the one West Ham suffered against Wolves on Tuesday and the fallout is
likely to be felt in the weeks and months to come. Co-owner David Sullivan's
emotional and highly-critical outburst of the display by Gianfranco Zola's
team, delivered via a statement on the club's website, has not gone down
well with the players. Zola's head is firmly on the block and reports this
week suggest that he has been asked to hand in a report to the owners about
the tactics, formations and selection policy he is going to employ to help
the club stave off relegation. His place, though, seems secure for now,
with Sullivan saying: "I don't think bringing in an Iain Dowie mark II will
make us a better team". Hardly reassuring words, but Zola knows he has to
win back the support of not only Sullivan and David Gold, but also the
support of sections of the Upton Park crowd.

Given their current malaise, Saturday's opponents Stoke are one of the last
teams West Ham would want to meet. The Hammers' lightweight back four will
hardly relish the prospect of bruisers Ricardo Fuller and Mamady Sidibe
getting in their faces. Tony Pulis believes West Ham cannot play as badly as
they did on Tuesday, but as long as referee Mike Dean is not the the man in
the middle, the Potters boss fancies his chances against anyone. Pulis was
livid that Dean sent off a Stoke player for the third time this season last
week and has asked for him not to officiate any of his side's matches in the
foreseeable future.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

• Stoke ended a run of five consecutive defeats in this fixture when they
triumphed at the Britannia Stadium earlier in the season.

• Stoke have only scored two goals in their last five matches at Upton Park.

• The sides have met on 77 occasions. West Ham have won 31, Stoke 28 and
there have been 18 draws.

• The Hammers have lost their last five league matches, conceding 14 goals
at an average of 2.8 per game.

• West Ham have come back to claim just one point in league games this
season when they have conceded first.

• They last came from behind to win a league match in December 2008, beating
Stoke 2-1.

Stoke City

• The Potters have had four players sent off in their last six league games.

• Stoke have conceded only 11 first-half goals in the league this season,
fewer than any other side.

• They are unbeaten in their last four games away from home in the Premier
League.

LEADING GOALSCORERS

West Ham

Cole: 9 goals (9 league); Diamanti: 8 goals (7 league)

Stoke City

Kitson: 7 goals (5 league - 3 for Middlesbrough);
Fuller: 6 goals (1 league)

MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee: Andre Marriner

Assistant referees: Michael Murphy & Ceri Richards

Fourth official: Dean Whitestone

LAST LEAGUE MATCH LINE-UPS
West Ham (L1-3 Wolves, h): Green, Faubert, Tomkins (Spector 46), Upson,
Daprela, Behrami, Parker, Kovac (Stanislas 46), Diamanti, Cole, McCarthy
(Franco 71). Subs not used: Stech, Ilan, Mido, Noble.

Stoke City (L1-2 v Tottenham, h): Sorensen, Huth, Abdoulaye Faye,
Higginbotham, Collins, Delap, Whelan (Sanli 84), Whitehead, Etherington,
Fuller, Kitson (Sidibe 84). Subs not used: Begovic, Lawrence, Pugh,
Wilkinson, Moult.

MOST RECENT MEETING

Stoke 2-1 West Ham (17 October 2009)

Stoke scorer: Beattie 11 (pen), 69

West Ham scorer: Upson 34

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola will stay as West Ham boss insists co-owner Gold
BBC.co.uk

West Ham co-owner David Gold insists Gianfranco Zola will remain as manager
even if the Hammers lose to Stoke at Upton Park on Saturday. The Londoners
have lost their last five Premier League games, including a 3-1 home defeat
by Wolves on Wednesday, and sit one place above the drop zone. Asked if Zola
would stay regardless of Saturday's result, Gold told BBC Sport:
"Absolutely, no question about that. "Franco's our man. We've got confidence
he will get us out of trouble." Gold also stated: "I'd rather be us than
Portsmouth, Burnley or Hull. "We are in trouble, there is no denying that
we're on the brink and the next seven games are cup finals. But all is not
lost. "Franco's determined to do his best and I'm content with the way
things are."
Gold's co-owner David Sullivan publicly criticised the team's performance
after the midweek defeat in an open letter letter to fans, posted on the
club's website, calling it "shambolic" and "pathetic". However, Zola
responded by saying he thought it may do more damage than good in the long
term. "The owner is entitled to his opinion because he is the owner," said
the Italian. "I was very disappointed and he [Sullivan] will know that
although I have not spoken to him directly. "You have to be careful how you
use those words because sometimes they can be painful and cause more damage
than you can imagine."
However, he insists he has put the outburst from Sullivan and the mounting
speculation surrounding his future as manager to one side to focus on
Saturday's visit of Stoke.
Zola, who succeeded Alan Curbishley in September 2008, said: "It is not
pleasant. But I am not going to retaliate or answer back. "I will keep my
focus on my job, I have a responsibility and will turn it into a positive
thing for me and players."
Sullivan and Gold, who took over the Hammers in January after leaving
Birmingham, have called for the fans to get behind the team, which has
slipped to 17th in the Premier League table. And that sentiment was echoed
by Zola ahead of the visit of a Stoke side that has won only two games away
from the Britannia Stadium this season, although they have also secured
draws on seven of their 14 trips so far. "I can understand the frustration
of the fans, because the team is not doing what people expected," he said.
"It is just about faith. West Ham is our team and we have to be supportive
for 90 minutes. "After that, we can express an opinion if we have not done a
good job."But when the players are on the pitch, we all have to be
supportive and the players need to feel we are behind them."
Zola feels the players will not need much encouragement to banish the demons
of the midweek mauling by Wolves. "The good thing is that I do not need to
motivate the players with a team talk, because they have already had one,"
he said. "We know that we have to produce a fantastic performance against
Stoke. "We need to make sure we show everyone we are a good team. "I am not
happy with the situation, the position we are in, but everybody is trying
very hard. "We care and are trying to find focus in a difficult position to
do a good job for the club. "While I can see that I can so something good
for this club, I am not going to walk away."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Stoke preview
Hammers go in search of precious points against Potters
Last updated: 26th March 2010
SSN

PREDICTIONS:
Skysports.com prediction: 2-1
SKY BET odds: West Ham evens, Draw 12/5, Stoke 11/4
One to Watch: Carlton Cole

With pressure mounting, West Ham know a positive result against Stoke on
Saturday is imperative. Gianfranco Zola has seen his position fall under
threat of late, with five consecutive defeats suffered in the Premier
League. That alarming slump has left the Hammers precariously perched just
three points above the relegation zone. On a more positive note, the capital
club have won five of their last six meetings with the Potters in all
competitions. Worryingly, though, they have only managed to take one point
from matches in which they have conceded first this season and must ensure
they keep things tight. Stoke will head to Upton Park on the back of a run
which has brought only one win from seven outings. They are, however,
unbeaten in their last four on the road and have lost only one of their
seven away games against sides currently in the bottom half of the table.
The Potters have struggled at West Ham in the past, though, managing only
two goals in their last five visits to the East End. They have also managed
to keep only one clean sheet in their last seven top-flight fixtures,
suggesting they will need to be among the goals this weekend.
Team news
West Ham's injury woes are starting to ease and they could welcome back at
least two senior stars on Saturday. Herita Ilunga is recovering well from a
calf problem and could come back into contention, while Danny Gabbidon is
also making positive progress after suffering a hamstring injury. Zola will,
however, still be without Zavon Hines (knee) and Luis Boa Morte (knee) as
both men are set to sit out the remainder of the season.
Stoke boss Tony Pulis will have to make do without Dean Whitehead as he
serves a one-match ban following his dismissal against Tottenham last week.
Ryan Shawcross (ankle) and Salif Diao (calf) are pushing hard for first-team
recalls and will hope to be involved after recent spells on the sidelines.
James Beattie definitely misses out with a knee injury, with speculation
suggesting he has played his last game for the Potters.

Possible starting XIs
West Ham: Green, Spector, Upson, Dapela, Faubert, Behrami, Kovac, Parker,
Diamanti, Cole, McCarthy.

Stoke: Sorensen, Higginbotham, Faye, Collins, Huth, Lawrence, Delap, Whelan,
Etherington, Kitson, Fuller.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola won't quit Hammers
West Ham boss committed to cause
Last updated: 26th March 2010
SSN

Gianfranco Zola insists he will not quit West Ham United amid mounting
speculation about his position at Upton Park. The Italian is coming under
increasing pressure at the helm of the East London outfit. The Hammers lost
at home to Wolves in midweek in a crunch relegation battle, which leaves
them just three points and a place above the drop-zone.
New co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold have backed Zola, but they were
unhappy with the nature of their defeat to Wolves. And Zola concedes this
weekend's game with Stoke could not be more important. "When I started here
I knew that if things didn't go well I might well get the sack," he told the
Daily Express. "I know my position and I don't need anybody to remind me.
"And obviously I know this is a game we must win, not only for our position
in table but for the atmosphere here. "But I am confident that this group of
players can get out of this."
Zola admitted he was unsure whether he would still be in charge past the
summer, saying: "I don't know but I know I am focused on giving my best for
West Ham every day."
"I knew there would be times like this when I went into management and I
have learned through experience that such moments make you stronger." Zola
admitted that the club's owners were less than amused with the performance
against Wolves. "They were not angry, they just wanted to know what was
going wrong and what we could do better," he said. "They mainly wanted to
see how I was because it was a tough game for me." Zola knows that victory
on Saturday is crucial to his own hopes and that of the club. "This game is
massive, we need to win for everyone here. But I will prepare in the same
way I do for all the others," he said. "My attention will be on the players
to give them what they need. That is all I have ever tried to do at this
club. "The situation has to get back to normality and three points will
help. Have I ever been under more pressure as manager? No. But there is
always pressure."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Upturn Park ambition
Zola will scrap to the bitter end, says Andy, but will his players?
Andy Gray Posted 26th March 2010 view comments
SSN

Any doubts that West Ham is a club in turmoil vanished with the capitulation
to Wolves. Six weeks ago I could not imagine they'd cave in like that and be
hovering just above the bottom three after five straight defeats. I thought
they'd have at least six or seven more points than they do now and perhaps
even be above their opponents this weekend, Stoke. But this league is
extremely unforgiving - there's no sentiment for anybody or any club - and
the arrival of co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold has not brought the
bounce most expected. Of all the clubs scrapping at the foot of the table, I
still believe that West Ham have the better players. But they need to start
performing now. The likes of Carlton Cole, Scott Parker, Matthew Upson and
Robert Green, all of whom have England ambitions, have to impress on the
squad that West Ham are now in the results business, not the performance
business. If the likes of Benni McCarthy, Mido, Alessandro Diamanti, Jack
Collison - take your pick - are to have an impact, their time is now.
However West Ham do it, they have to find a way to survive. It's about
battling on for as long as you can - even if that means clinging on until
the very last day of the season.
Remember 1993/94 when Everton saved their Premiership status by coming back
from 2-0 to beat Wimbledon 3-2? They escaped and moved on from there; they
weren't the first club to do it and they certainly aren't the last and
that's what West Ham have to bear in mind. I think West Ham's players might
enjoy the feeling that plenty of people are dismissing their chances of
staying in the Premier League. My message to them is 'dig in and forget the
silky football' because they will have to scrape some results in what is not
an easy run in. It might be a 1-0 against Stoke this weekend, it might not.
If it's not then the players must walk off that pitch knowing that they've
given everything they can to get those points. A repeat of the way they gave
in to Wolves in midweek is not just unacceptable, it could now be terminal
to their top-flight status.

Quite often I hear people say Gianfranco Zola is too nice to be a manager
and that his lack of management experience in this type of situation counts
against him. Well, neither of those points concern me in the slightest. I've
known lots of nice guys who have been managers and done a very, very good
job, while there aren't many managers out there who do have experience of
being in this position. Even if they were, do you really want to appoint a
manager whose only experience is of fighting relegation? Of course not!
That's never going to be positive or productive. Gianfranco will be looking
at Portsmouth and thinking 'they've gone' and he may well believe the same
of Burnley; then he'll look at Hull and see a club managed by a man who,
like himself, has precious little Premier League experience. If he feels the
need to be very vocal, give his players some stick and throw some tea cups
then I'm sure he will. Sure, it might not be in his nature but this job can
be done any number of ways. Some work, others don't. It was the way Celtic
played that cost Tony Mowbray his job rather than his personality.
Gianfranco has excelled as an international footballer and played for
Chelsea, a team that fought tooth and nail for everything, so he knows
what's required. Although he is not a man who wears his heart on his sleeve
that doesn't mean to say he doesn't care and he's not passionate about the
job he is doing. He may well walk away at the end of the season but, if he
does, I'm damned sure he'll want to do it having kept the club up. The
owners have come out and backed him this week - now they have to let him get
on with the job on his own terms.

I have a lot of sympathy for fans of a club in this situation. Over the
years so much talent has drained away from West Ham that it's tempting to
think 'if only', much like Everton supporters must do about Wayne Rooney.
Any club will feel the loss of Rio Ferdinand, Michael Carrick and Frank
Lampard to name but three but until West Ham evolves into a club that is
competing for a Champions League place, fans must accept it's only a natural
progression for those players to move on. What those fans need now is a
player to do something that will get them off their seat and give them some
hope to cling to - exactly the opposite of what happened against Wolves. The
team's reaction to going a goal down was not what the fans wanted to see.
Sometimes as a player you have to lift the fans even if you want them to
lift you. Come Saturday I've no doubt they'll be right behind the team but
if Stoke dominate the opening 10 minutes their resolve will be tested.
That's why West Ham must start the game with a real good tempo. They must
compete physically with Stoke because if everyone sees them fighting and
caring for the club, it makes such a difference. No club has the right to be
in the Premier League. Yes, we want our biggest clubs in the top division
but at the same time we mustn't send out the message that the smaller clubs
are not wanted. Last season we lost Newcastle - everyone said that was a
blow and the league will suffer - but in fact we've had one of the best
league campaigns ever, given the closest of the title fight, the battle to
get into the top four and the scrap to avoid the drop. If West Ham do go
down the Premier League will miss them but the League will move on. What's
more, the fortunes of Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest should
remind them that, despite what Newcastle may achieve, not every club comes
straight back up. That should be all the inspiration West Ham's players need
going into their final seven matches of the season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola hits back at Sullivan
West Ham boss not happy with co-owner's comments
Last updated: 26th March 2010
SSN

West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola has hit back at comments made by co-owner
David Sullivan. Zola fears that Sullivan's stinging criticism of the side,
which came following their defeat to Wolves in midweek, could damage their
chances of staying in the Premier League. Sullivan wrote an open letter to
supporters on the club's official website, in which he described their
midweek performance as 'shambolic'. But Zola fears the harsh words could
have a negative effect on his players as they battle to beat the drop in the
Premier League. "The owner is entitled to have his opinion and express it,
because he is the owner," said Zola, ahead of Saturday's clash with Stoke.
"However, when you use those words, you have to be very careful how you use
them because sometimes they can be painful and cause more damage than you
can imagine, and that could be the case.
"How will the players be feeling? "I was very disappointed and he will know
that, although I have not spoken to him directly. "It is not pleasant. But I
am not going to retaliate or answer back. "I will keep my focus on my job, I
have a responsibility and will turn it into a positive thing for me and
players. "I will keep my head down and focus on the job."
Now we just have to focus on playing, and stop talking."
Away from the off-field issues, Zola insisted that his team still have what
it takes to stay up. "We are a good team, but going through a difficult
moment," he said. "We need to make sure we show everyone we are a good team
and are going to try to show that tomorrow. "I am not happy with the
situation, the position we are in, but everybody is trying very hard. "We
care and are trying to find focus in a difficult position to do a good job
for the club. "I do not think the players are not passionate, against Wolves
they were trying to sort the situation out more like an individual. "That is
my mistake - we have worked on that, and hopefully they will fight like a
team. "We have to win as a team, which is the most important thing.
"Everybody wants to give 200 per cent, but that has to be given in the right
way."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold backing managerial team
Hammers co-owner insists Zola has their backing
Last updated: 26th March 2010
SSN

West Ham co-owner David Gold insists the club's owners are not looking to
force out manager Gianfranco Zola. The Hammers' attempts to avoid relegation
suffered a blow on Tuesday night when Wolves secured a fine 3-1 win at Upton
Park. That promoted Gold's co-owner David Sullivan to hit out at the team's
display, labelling the performance as 'shambolic'. Zola hinted earlier on
Friday that Sullivan's open letter to fans on the club's official website
had done more harm than good. However, Gold has now added his weight to the
debate and insists everyone is fully behind Zola and his managerial team.
"That's outrageous," Gold responded to Sky Sports when questioned whether
Zola was being forced out of West Ham. "We are fully supportive of our
management structure. We're fully behind the team. "We believe the fans will
play a big part against Stoke and we'll slowly pull out of the troubles
we're in. "I've just spent an hour with Franco and Steve Clarke. I can tell
you that they are absolutely determined to do their best. "You can feel the
passion that they display for this football club. I'm very content with the
way things are being prepared for this big game against Stoke."
When asked whether Zola would remain at West Ham next season, Gold again
responded positively. "I would hope so," he added. "I would hope so because
I enjoy working with him. Franco I hope is with West Ham for many years to
come." Gold has refused to criticise Sullivan following his post-match
comments and insists his long-time business partner has the right to speak
out. Rather than continuing to dwell on Tuesday's defeat to Wolves, Gold is
looking forward and believes everyone is focused on their weekend clash with
Stoke. "What I can tell you is that after the match on Tuesday is all West
Ham fans, including myself, David Sullivan, the players and the management
is that we're all devastated," Gold continued. "After all it was our fifth
straight defeat. It was a game that we hoped to win. We thought we'd win and
things went wrong. "It was one of those evenings where everything went right
for Wolves and nothing went right for West Ham. You get those days and I
know that Tuesday evening was awful for all of us. "So was Wednesday, but by
Thursday you begin to look forwards and not backwards and that's what we
have to do here really. Look forward. The big game is against Stoke."
When asked whether Sullivan was right in going public with the comments,
Gold concluded: "That's for everyone else to judge. I've not spoken to him
about it. He's entitled to say. He's an owner. "We're all different. We
approach these issues differently. What I'm feeling we must do is focus on
our match against Stoke and that's why I'm here today at the training
ground. "I've spoken to some of the players. I've spoken to Franco, who's
really upbeat. We all believe that West Ham can come out of this and remain
in the Premier League, which is what we all want."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
I'll leave if you want me to
The Sun
By ANDREW DILLON
Published: Today

GIANFRANCO ZOLA has told outspoken West Ham owners David Gold and David
Sullivan: Back me or sack me. Yet another crunch match looms for the Hammers
today against Stoke at the end of the latest turbulent week at Upton Park.
Relegation fears and rifts are rife within the camp. And the team, now just
one place and three points clear of the drop zone, has let the manager down
badly. Shockwaves from Tuesday's abject 3-1 home defeat by fellow strugglers
Wolves are still being felt, with joint-chairman Sullivan labelling the
performance 'pathetic'. It is the second public airing of frustration from
the boardroom following Sullivan's bombshell prediction of 'Armageddon' if
the team goes down. Zola is under more pressure than at any time in his
career as a superstar striker or a rookie manager - but the little Sardinian
finally came out fighting yesterday. He said: "Maybe the job I am doing is
not good - but I do it with honesty. If it is not good just tell me. I have
no problem with that. "I have been thinking about this situation and have
been saying 'what the hell is going on here?' "I understand the chairman Mr
Sullivan is very much concerned about the situation. "We are not in a very
good position and he is concerned. I am concerned as much as him. I have
faith in the players I am working with. "I question myself: Am I doing
everything I can? And I have to say yes. I am doing it with passion, I am
doing it with honesty. "While I can see that I can do something good for
this club, I am not going to walk away. A lot has been happening but, if I
can be helpful, then why shouldn't I be here? So why should I be kicking
myself or banging my head against the wall? "I love the game and I have a
fair approach to it. Sometimes things don't work. I don't understand. Jesus
Christ, it is a football game."
True, but to thousands of West Ham fans who pay Premier League prices for
below-par football, it is more than that. West Ham have lost five games in a
row and, while their top-flight destiny remains in their own hands, it is
the attitude of the players which is being questioned most. Zola said: "The
owner is entitled to have his opinion and express it, because he is the
owner. "However, when you use those words, you have to be very careful how
you use them because sometimes they can be painful and cause more damage
than you can imagine - and that could be the case. But I am not going to
retaliate or answer back. "I will keep my focus on my job, I have a
responsibility and will turn it into a positive thing for me and players.
"We had a chat straight after the Wolves match and the players were
devastated because they didn't expect to play and perform like that. I am
expecting a big reaction against Stoke - and we will play better."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Matt : I'm Ether so sorry
The Sun
By JANINE SELF
Published: Today

MATTY ETHERINGTON reckons new West Ham co-owner David Sullivan should stick
to running the club - and leave the managing to Gianfranco Zola. Stoke's
ex-Hammer goes back to Upton Park today for the first time and thinks
Sullivan was bang out of order for publicly criticising the team after the
3-1 home defeat by Wolves. Etherington, 28, said: "It doesn't help. I can
tell you that. You've got to let the players and the manager get on with it.
That's what they're employed for, it's what they're paid to do. "I'm sure
after the game there were a lot of things said, and rightly so. "When you
put in those kind of performances and you get beaten like that you have to
dig deep. "I personally don't think it helps when the chairman comes out
like that. You let the manager get on with the football and the chairman
with running the club. "I don't think it would help as a player if you hear
the chairman coming out with those things, lambasting the players. It piles
on the pressure and they're under enough as it is. "I don't know the owners
and they have saved West Ham when they were in a lot of trouble. I'm sure
they have the club's best interests at heart. "The fans vented their anger
and rightly so, they pay their money. Look at the spine of the team, Rob
Green, Matty Upson, Scott Parker and Carlton Cole. That's a top-half team.
"I'm just gutted to see them where they are."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers prepare Plan B
The Sun
By ANDREW DILLON
Published: Today

WEST HAM have drawn up a 10-strong list of replacements for Gianfranco Zola.
Owners David Gold and David Sullivan are preparing a Plan B should Hammers
boss Zola suffer a sixth straight loss at home to Stoke today. The
joint-chairmen are desperate to back their under-pressure manager and spare
him the axe. But defeat at Upton Park today will make relegation a serious
threat. Sacking Zola is a last resort and it would leave the Hammers issuing
an SOS for a temporary boss to keep them up with just half a dozen games to
go. Mark Hughes was the leading candidate to replace Zola but the former
Manchester City boss has priced himself out of the running by demanding a
package of nearly £10million for him and his coaching staff. Shockwaves are
still being felt at Upton Park from Tuesday's 3-1 home defeat to fellow
strugglers Wolves. Sullivan branded the performance 'pathetic'. And Gold
said: "I haven't spoken to David but he's entitled to his comments. He's an
owner. "Whether it's right, whether it's wrong, each of us must make a
judgment. "We're all different, we approach these issues differently. We're
our own people. We do what we believe is in the best interest of the
football club. "Some like the way I do it, some like the way David Sullivan
does it. "That's the way it's been. It worked in 17 years at Birmingham and
I'm sure it will work here. "I don't think it's my place to ask David
Sullivan to behave any other way than he feels fit. "All West Ham fans,
including myself, David Sullivan, the players, the management team, were all
devastated with the result against Wolves. "Tuesday evening was awful for
all of us, so was Wednesday. But by Thursday you begin to look forwards and
not backwards - and that's really what we have to do here because the big
game is against Stoke. "We all believe that West Ham can come out of this
and remain in the Premier League, which is what we all want.
"Gianfranco's our man. We've got confidence he will get us out of trouble.
"There's no denying that we're on the brink and the next seven games are cup
finals. But all is not lost.
"Franco's determined to do his best and I'm content with the way things
are."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Karren Brady's Football Diary
The Sun
KARREN BRADY - First lady of football
Published: Today

THE First Lady of Football, West Ham vice-chairman and wife of Burton Albion
manager Paul Peschisolido gives the inside story on her traumatic week...

Saturday, March 20

MY admiration for Arsenal is no secret. Simply, they try to do things the
right way. They possess traditions, values and management - on and off the
field - that are my blueprint.
So I'm off to the Emirates with my son, by Tube. In the boardroom, queues
form to hang coats. I'd love to report the presence of a lacy black bra as
there was at Chelsea but there's nothing more exciting than a
slightly-battered black hat. I'm welcomed by two of my favourite people in
football, Ken Friar and Lady Nina Bracewell. Arsene Wenger is here, too, but
there are no favours to be found on the pitch. We play quite well and lose.
Arsenal hop to the top of the table and all we're left with is a feeling of
slight relief that Portsmouth beat Hull. My nerves are twitching.

Sunday, March 21

A FOOTBALL director friend is hosting a birthday party in a large marquee at
his country mansion. I'm next to a Prem director who does NOT drink. Well,
not until he accidentally toasts with wine. More wine is taken and this
rather staid director begins to act up: he eats my potatoes, which is brave
as I'm of Irish background; he smears a chocolate moustache on himself and
throws a bread roll at a young lady. Later, at an 'alternative' auction for
charity I bid not to get a Villa shirt. At 5am, a text arrives from the
hungover director: "Why the f*** is Sol Campbell's jockstrap in my bed?".

Monday, March 22

I BUMP into FA chairman Lord Triesman at the House of Lords, where I am
having a meeting. Rather wearily, he tells me chief exec Ian Watmore has
resigned after a year in the job, claiming he would not win the support he
required from the board. I'm forecasting another bout of 'You're to blame'
between the FA and the Premier League. One has the authority and the other
has the financial muscle and, you might think, the Great Referee in the Sky
couldn't make that work. Well, it has to. For the sake of our 2018 World Cup
bid.

Tuesday, March 23

THE morning of our critical home match with Wolves and I'm at Old Trafford
where I have to shoulder my way through rebel Man U scarves of green and
gold. It's a petrified forest of Mancunians without jobs - or taking
liberties. I bet the General Election doesn't pull them out like this. Over
a cup of tea, I'm told the club is taking 24,000 phone calls a week from
supporters backing the Glazers and from those who want them out. Rumours are
spreading with the virulence of Spanish flu. One put by the press to the
club goes: 'Is it true after light training you only tumble dry kit with
Bounce and not detergent because you are trying to save money?'. Another:
'Is it true you use old jockstraps to clean the training ground rather than
cloths, to save money?'. With the result at Upton Park, I feel like I have
been wiped by an old jockstrap myself.

Wednesday, March 24

IT'S the day after the nightmare before, West Ham losing 1-3 to Wolves. Our
fifth consecutive loss and all the bloom of taking over the club and
starting to make it work is like so many broken flowers. Gianfranco Zola is
under pressure, but no one can put more pressure on him than he puts on
himself. He's so evidently a delightful man, so desperate to do well that in
no way am I going to undermine him. Zola must quickly acquire the trick of
ironing out the humps and bumps of player confidence, just as Carlo
Ancelotti has to with his tense players along the river at Chelsea and Rafa
Benitez at Liverpool. Wenger has pulled his young side together quickly
after bad Arsenal results this season, which is why they are still in the
Premier League title race. The missing name is - you guessed it - Sir Alex
Ferguson, who is brilliant at keeping things on an even keel.

Thursday, March 25

BIG Boss Football is very often unpopular with minority sports but there's
an exciting chance to join together in the new Olympic Stadium and I plead
with them - and the Government - not to be blind to the opportunity we have
in Stratford. There are clubs all over the continent where football carries
most of the financial weight while sharing facilities with a host of sports.
Real Madrid is a classic example here, leading the whole community in
providing for about a dozen sports. I passionately believe West Ham can be
such a club and even our current league problems do not dent our board's
enthusiastic welcome for the support Newham Council have decided to give us
in the quest for a 60,000-seater stadium developed after the Games for the
greatest unifying factor in the area - West Ham United. Lord Coe talks of a
sports legacy from the Games. My club present an unbeatable chance of
providing it. I'm optimistic all round, even about the team.

Friday, March 26

I AM a little alarmed by Matthew Upson's comment that my team "are about as
low as you can get". At Birmingham, I found Matthew an honest and
intelligent man and he'll know exactly what to do about shattered
confidence. It's to concentrate on hard work and team work and nothing else
against Stoke tomorrow.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Franco gives his flops a lesson
The Sun
Published: 26 Mar 2010

GIANFRANCO ZOLA shows his West Ham flops how to get out of the brown stuff.
Boss Zola took a hands-on role as the Hammers underwent final preparations
for their home clash against Stoke tomorrow. The Italian looked as though he
was leaving nothing to chance as Tony Pulis' battlers visit the East End.
Keeper Rob Green even appeared to go through some special drills to cope
with the bombardment of Rory Delap's long throws. Hopefully for Hammers
fans, there

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gianfranco Zola in danger of becoming a fall guy for team's failures
The Times
Oliver Kay, Football Correspondent

The iron gates at the end of an unremarkable cul-de-sac in Chadwell Heath,
Essex, mark the boundary between suburbia and absurdia. The circus has set
up residence at West Ham United's training ground and, while it is not easy
to distinguish the ringmasters from the clowns, there is little doubt who is
at risk of being thrown to the lions. For Gianfranco Zola, managing West Ham
has become a high-wire act and it is now only a question of when, not if, he
jumps or falls. From the moment David Sullivan and David Gold took control
of West Ham in January, he has been on borrowed time. But, after tensions
between the board and the manager were heightened by Sullivan's astonishing
attacks on the playing staff at a meeting on Thursday, and in a letter
published on the club's website, there were whispers last night that Zola's
departure could be imminent regardless of what happens against Stoke City at
Upton Park today. Zola did his best to maintain his cheerful demeanour
yesterday lunchtime in his weekly press briefing, but he could not hide his
dissatisfaction for very long.
The mantra he seemed to have settled on beforehand was that "words can be
harmful" — presumably a clever catch-all phrase about Sullivan's outburst
and his own plans to remain diplomatic — but by the time he had left the
building, the war of words had escalated into a conflict that seems certain
to end in a managerial casualty. Having tiptoed around the situation for
four or five minutes, almost as nimbly as he used to tiptoe around defenders
in his Chelsea heyday, Zola was asked what he really thought about
Sullivan's comments. "I was very disappointed," the Italian said. "He knows
that. It is not pleasant. The owner is entitled to have his opinion and
express it, because he is the owner. But when you use those words, you have
to be very careful because sometimes they can be painful and cause more
damage than you can imagine — and that could be the case."
There was probably a time in Sullivan's life when he, too, thought that
words got in the way of things. But that was in the late 1970s when he was
overseeing the production of pornographic films with such intriguing titles
as Come Play With Me and Queen of the Blues. Since he took control of West
Ham, however, Sullivan has come to place huge emphasis on words: most
colourfully "pathetic" and "shambolic", the adjectives he used to described
the team's performance in their 3-1 home defeat by Wolverhampton Wanderers
on Tuesday. While that sort of plain speaking might make him popular with
newspapers, television stations and radio channels and, by extension,
supporters, it cannot make things easy for Zola. Someone asked Zola whether
the change of ownership — and the change of culture in the boardroom — from
faceless Icelandic bankers to two West Ham supporters, at least one of whom
seems to be speaking from the heart a little more than is necessary — had
affected his enjoyment of the job. "I've been thinking about this situation
and I've been saying, 'What the hell is going on here?' It's a football
game, Jesus Christ!" he said. "I question myself, 'Am I doing everything
that I can?' And I have to say yes. I am doing it with passion. I am doing
it with honesty. So why should I be kicking myself or banging my head
against the wall? "I love the game and I have a fair approach to it.
Sometimes things don't work. Maybe the job I am doing is not good. But I do
it with honesty. If it is not good they \ just tell me. I have no problem
with that."

Next question. Do you think the owners want you to walk away? A
contemplative pause. "That is a good question," Zola said. "I don't know.
Obviously I understand the chairman, Mr Sullivan, is very much concerned
about the situation. We are not in a very good position and he is concerned.
I am concerned as much as him. I have faith in the players I am working
with."

On that point, too, Zola and Sullivan seem to be at odds. Zola suggested
that his players are merely "in a bad moment", but Sullivan, in that
remarkable open letter, stated that "nobody at this club should delude
themselves that we are a good team. We have a few very talented players in
our team, but it is a very unbalanced squad. The table at this stage of the
season does not lie."

And in this respect, regardless of whether or not he is right to say it,
Sullivan is spot-on. Beyond the core of Robert Green, Matthew Upson, Scott
Parker and Carlton Cole, this West Ham squad looks woefully short of the
qualities that somehow earned a highly respectable ninth-place finish in
Zola's first season in charge. Julien Faubert, Valon Behrami and Alessandro
Diamanti are talented, but not the players you would choose to have on your
side for a relegation dogfight. Beyond that, there are a number of players
who lack experience, players who are injured or out of condition and players
whose pedigree did not obviously suggest a move to the Barclays Premier
League.

In short, West Ham are a mess, particularly now that their confidence is
brittle after five consecutive Premier League defeats. Three points separate
them from the relegation zone and were it not for the fact that Portsmouth
are doomed and that Burnley and Hull City seem unable to generate any
momentum, things would be bleaker still.

The match against Stoke represents an opportunity for West Ham's players to
bounce back and to make a point on their manager's behalf. That is what
happened last month after some of their earnings — and Zola's, whose salary
of £1.9 million is quite excessive for someone barely a year into his first
management job — were mysteriously leaked into the public domain shortly
after the change of ownership. That coincided with Sullivan's suggestion
that the players and management should take a 25 per cent cut in the event
of relegation, after which several players made a point of fêting Zola
following their subsequent victory over Birmingham City.

Perhaps Sullivan feels that the backlash from the dressing room warranted a
similar approach this time. And perhaps if he gets it, he will congratulate
himself on another job well done. And if it goes wrong again this afternoon,
you can bet Sullivan will not be the one taking responsibility. Zola's
position on that tightrope looks exceedingly precarious.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United's move to the Olympic stadium explained
The Times
Fiona Hamilton, London Correspondent

Why do West Ham United want to play at the Olympic stadium?
A move to the stadium is the centrepiece of the plan to revive the club.
David Sullivan and David Gold, the club's new co-owners, believe that they
would be able to "take football back to the people" by reducing admission
prices to the cheapest in the Premier League. The stadium's close location
to transport hubs and the forthcoming Westfield Stratford City shopping
centre would open it up to West Ham's fanbase to the north and east of the
capital.

What are their chances of moving there after 2012?
The Olympic Park Legacy Company (OPLC), which is responsible for the use of
the stadium after the Games, is expecting a wide variety of bids. Several
other organisations have expressed interest, including The National Skills
Academy, an employer-led school of training excellence, and the English
Institute of Sport. There have also been discussions with the Rugby Football
Union, cricket organisations and American sporting bodies. West Ham are the
most likely option to emerge so far. Their chances will have been boosted by
the stadium's inclusion in the bid to host the 2018 football World Cup. It
has political backing from the local council and Boris Johnson, the Mayor of
London, has expressed his support for the stadium having a football or rugby
club as its tenant.

In 2005 London won the right to host the Olympics, why has it taken so long
to call for expressions of interest?
West Ham initially expressed interest about moving into the stadium during
the early stages of development, but talks broke down because of the
athletics track requirements and their finances. They expressed new interest
in January, after being taken over. The process has also been stymied by the
lack of a permanent legacy body because the OPLC was only set up in October.

West Ham would hope to fund most of the move, and the conversion of the
Olympic Stadium, by selling Upton Park. The land's development potential is
increasingly valuable because of the new infrastructure and development in
the area brought by the Olympics. Arsenal successfully redeveloped their
former stadium into "Highbury Square".

Will football fans have a running track between the stands and the pitch?
London's bid included a promise to convert the 80,000-seat stadium into a
"25,000-seat multipurpose venue with athletics at its core". UK Athletics
(UKA) has repeatedly emphasised the need for a permanent running track, as
well as a 400 metres warm-up track, to be able to host leading international
events. However, the OPLC's call for tenders said it would consider bids of
"varied capacity and design configurations". It said it was "open to other
technically feasible and commercially viable approaches". Karren Brady, the
West Ham vice-chairman, last week met UKA to discuss possible solutions,
indicating that the football club are softening on their athletics position.

What will the capacity be and how much work is needed to convert it into a
football stadium?
Upton Park has a capacity of 35,303 but the club are looking to increase
their ground capacity to about 55,000. The cost of downsizing the Olympic
Stadium is more than £100 million. There is £350 million in the Olympic
Delivery Authority's budget for transformation of venues after the Games,
but this would include all of the venues throughout the Olympic Park.

How will any deal for them to play there work?
West Ham's bid is still being worked out but it is likely the club would be
installed as tenants, with taxpayers remaining as owners. The strong legacy
element to the Olympics means that the stadium would need to be open for a
wide range of community uses, as well as athletics.

When would the club move in?
The OPLC hopes to reach a settled position by next March but does not gain
control of the venues until 2013. It is unlikely that West Ham would move in
before the 2014-15 season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Matthew Etherington: Gianfranco Zola will save West Ham from relegation
Tim Harris
The Times

Matthew Etherington, the Stoke City midfield player, believes that
Gianfranco Zola is the right man to keep West Ham in the Premier League.
"I'm sure if they give him the time, then they will be OK and I think they
will push on," said Etherington. "He has (assistant) Steve Clarke behind
him, who is obviously very experienced from his time with Chelsea, and I
think it's the right combination." Zola has had a disagreement with David
Sullivan this week after the co-owner called West Ham's performance on
Tuesday night against Wolves "pathetic". However, the manager firmly
believes that his squad has the quality and the depth to escape the drop.
"Everybody wants to give 200%, but that has to be given in the right way,"
he said. "We are trying to find focus in a difficult position to do a good
job for the club. We have to win as a team, which is the most important
thing."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola tells Sullivan and Gold: Sack me if you're so unhappy
Published 23:00 26/03/10 By Neil McLeman
The Mirror

Gianfranco Zola last night challenged West Ham's owners to sack him if
they're so unhappy. The Upton Park manager is furious co-chairman David
Sullivan wrote an open letter to fans this week labelling his side
"pathetic" and "shambolic". The Hammers have lost five consecutive games to
slide to one place above the relegation zone. But Zola hit back, calling the
criticism "painful" and "nonsense" and claiming Sullivan could damage the
club's survival fight. And before today's visit of Stoke, the Italian
insisted the new owners must replace him if they believe he cannot keep them
in the Premier League. Zola said: "I question myself: Am I doing everything
that I can? "And I have to say yes. I am doing it with passion. I am doing
it with honesty. So why should I be kicking myself or banging my head
against the wall. "Maybe the job I am doing is not good. If it is not good
they just tell me. I have no problem with that."
It was brave talk on the eve of a pressure-cooker home clash which could yet
be his last at the club. In responding to Sullivan's open letter to fans,
Zola was careful not to go too far in defending the honour of his players
and staff. But the Italian still showed the skill of Lucrezia Borgia in
sticking a stiletto between the shoulders blades of his boss. "I was very,
very disappointed and he knows that," said Zola. "It is not pleasant. The
players are professional and their commitment towards the club is total.
"The owner is entitled to have his opinion and express it, because he is the
owner. "Obviously, when you use those words, you have to be very careful
because they can be painful and cause more damage than you can imagine, and
that could be the case. I am not going to retaliate or answer back because
it doesn't deserve that. "I will keep my focus on my job, I have a
responsibility and will turn it into a positive thing for me and the
players. "Now is the moment to stop talking and just play football."
Sullivan visited the club's Chadwell Heath training ground on Thursday and
addressed a stormy meeting of the players. But Zola claimed he was not aware
of the comments posted on West Ham's website until minutes before
yesterday's press conference. "I won't try to talk to him about them," he
said. "The game tomorrow is more important than anything else." "
But fellow owner David Gold was at Chadwell Heath yesterday to support Zola
and implicitly criticise Sullivan's comments. "He is entitled to say it – he
is an owner," said Gold. "Whether he is right or wrong is up to others to
make a judgement. We are all different." Asked if Zola would stay regardless
of Saturday's result, Gold replied: "Absolutely, no question about that.
Franco's our man. We've got confidence he will get us out of trouble." Zola
said: "Mr Gold has been very good to speak to us and I do appreciate that.
But I'm not saying this is one good guy and the other isn't. I respect Mr
Sullivan and Mr Gold. "In this case Mr Sullivan has made some quotes and I'm
replying to those with all respect to his position."
The owners do not want to have to sack Zola because they want the manager to
keep West Ham up. But another "shambolic" performance against Stoke could
force their hand.
Zola insisted he had received no ultimatum from either owner. But he's less
clear on his long-term prospects. "I don't know if I will be here next
season," he added. "You are asking me questions I cannot answer. "We are a
good team, but going through a difficult moment. It is about faith. "The
players know they must go out and produce a brilliant performance tomorrow."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sullivan brands West Ham stars 'fat, lazy and useless' in astonishing team
meeting
Published 23:00 26/03/10 By Darren Lewis Exclusive
The Mirror

Angry West Ham players fought an astonishing verbal battle with co-owner
David Sullivan in an explosive team meeting. Sullivan hijacked boss
Gianfranco Zola's get-together to round on the team, calling them "fat, lazy
and useless". Then preparations for today's must-win clash with Stoke
descended into chaos as the squad traded insults with the man who publicly
branded them "pathetic" after Tuesday's defeat by Wolves. Injured Luis Boa
Morte was among several players who blasted the ex-Birmingham chief,
condemning the open letter to fans in which he made his comments. The
striker told Sullivan: "If you've got something to say to us, say it to our
faces."
Zola yesterday remained coy about Thursday's bust-up, insisting: "It's not
necessary to get into the details. It's important we focus on what we have
to do in the game rather than anything else." But Mirror Sport can reveal
the players' rebellion continued until assistant manager Steve Clarke
stepped in and called a halt, asking Sullivan to leave. The players are
particularly unhappy with persistent attempts by Sullivan and co-owner David
Gold to undermine Zola with their interest in Mark Hughes. Sullivan upset
the players in January, shortly after taking control, by criticising their
work-rate compared to their wages. His latest outburst, coupled with a range
of cost-cutting measures which include axing the team coach and telling
players to use their cars to travel to games, will not have helped morale as
the Hammers battle to avoid relegation.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Payne among eight players to leave club
11:10am Friday 26th March 2010
Guardian Series

WEST HAM'S owners have extended the cost-cutting project to the playing
staff, with eight players being released from their contracts. Josh Payne,
who has made three first-team appearances for the Hammers, was the biggest
name to depart, while defender Bondz N'Gala, who recently joined Plymouth
Argyle on loan, will also not have his contract renewed. The other players
to leave are Academy players Nick Barrett, Davide Ferrari, Peter Loveday,
Danny Kearns, Conor Okus and Jack Lampe.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham can be inspired by David Sullivan's criticism, says Gianfranco Zola
Gianfranco Zola, the West Ham manager, has admitted that comments posted in
an open letter to fans by joint chairman David Sullivan will be used to
motivate his team ahead of tomorrow's crucial visit of Stoke.
Teklegraph.co.uk
By John Ley
Published: 2:53PM GMT 26 Mar 2010

Gianmfranco Zola is confident his side will react well following David
Sullivan's scathing criticism . Sullivan described the performance in West
Ham's 3-1 defeat by Wolves as 'pathetic' and a 'shambles'. Zola responded by
saying: "The good thing is that I do not need to motivate the players with a
team talk tomorrow, because they have already had one. "I was very
disappointed and he knows that," added Zola of the comments. "It is not
pleasant. I have not spoken to him directly, and just found about the
statement today.
"The players are professional and their commitment towards the club is
total, so I do not question that and am sure tomorrow they will be fine. "We
are professionals and will be very professional, will perform and give
everything we have to give." And Zola called a halt to the criticisms and
added: "Now is the moment to stop talking and play football. I do not
understand all this nonsense. "Let's put in a performance and make it
enjoyable for everyone, which is why I am here and what I am being paid for.
"The owner is entitled to have his opinion and express it, because he is the
owner. "However, when you use those words, you have to be very careful how
you use them because sometimes they can be painful and cause more damage
than you can imagine, and that could be the case. "I will keep my focus on
my job, I have a responsibility and will turn it into a positive thing for
me and players. I will keep my head down and focus on the job."
West Ham are without Herita Ilunga, James Tomkins and Guillermo Franco for
the visit of Stoke and Zola accepts the important of a game his side cannot
afford tolose after five straight defeats. "We are a good team, but going
through a difficult moment and we need to make sure we show everyone we are
a good team and are going to try to show that tomorrow. "I am not happy with
the situation, the position we are in, but everybody is trying very hard.
"We care and are trying to find focus in a difficult position to do a good
job for the club. "I do not think the players are not passionate, against
Wolves they were trying to sort the situation out more like an individual.
"That is my mistake - we have worked on that, and hopefully they will fight
like a team."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Matthew Etherington hits back at David Sullivan for attack on West Ham
players
Matthew Etherington has criticised West Ham chairman David Sullivan for
fulminating against his players in public.
Telegraph.co.uk
By Sandy Macaskill
Published: 11:59PM GMT 26 Mar 2010

Matthew Etherington believes David Sullivan was out of order Photo: ACTION
IMAGES The former West Ham winger, who will return to Upton Park on Saturday
for the first time since joining Stoke City last year, said that Sullivan
ought to focus his attentions on repairing the club's financial security,
and leave rebuking his underperforming players to Gianfranco Zola.

Sullivan wrote an astonishing letter to supporters after West Ham's
"shambolic" and "pathetic" performance against Wolverhampton Wanderers this
week, which left West Ham just three points clear of the relegation zone.
Sport on television By alienating himself, perhaps Sullivan hoped to unite
his players behind Zola — a convoluted management device, admittedly — but
Etherington, who remains in touch with his former team-mates, insisted it
was unwanted interference.

"It doesn't help, I can tell you that," the midfielder said. "You've got to
let the players and the manager get on with it. That's what they're employed
for, it's what they're paid to do. You let them get on with the football and
let the chairman get on with running the club. It would not help as a player
if you hear the chairman coming out with those things, lambasting the
players.

"I don't know the owners and I'm sure they have West Ham's best interests at
heart without a doubt. They want the team to be doing well and winning, but
it piles the pressure on and they're under enough pressure as it is.

"Surely that's why he's got the manager and Steve Clarke in. That's their
job, it's not the chairman's job."

Etherington, 28, will have mixed emotions this afternoon for his side could
be responsible for consigning West Ham further into a relegation battle,
although despite their predicament he still considers the quality they have
at their disposal enough to keep them safe this season.

"I know people say they're too good to go down, but I genuinely think they
are," he said. "Look at the spine of the team: Rob Green, Matty Upson, Scott
Parker and Carlton Cole. That's a top-half team. It's the first time I've
been back so there'll be a few nerves there no doubt but I've got to be
professional."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gianfranco Zola on brink of quitting as West Ham manager as internal warfare
continues
Such is the intense pressure being felt by Gianfranco Zola that the West Ham
manager is believed to be close to breaking point.
Telegraph.co.uk
By Jason Burt and John Ley
Published: 11:30PM GMT 26 Mar 2010

Gianfranco Zola is on the brink of quitting as West Ham United manager
having becoming disillusioned with the internal warfare. It is understood
that he is considering walking out after Saturday's vital relegation battle
against Stoke City – even if his team are victorious.

Zola could stay until the end of the season, but what appears increasingly
certain is that he will not remain in charge for the next campaign, even
though co-chairman David Sullivan offered him his "100 per cent" support
earlier this week. The beleaguered club, yet again, is enveloped in a
crisis.

Sport on television Zola, it is understood, thought that he would leave in
the summer but wanted to make sure he steered West Ham to safety before he
did so because he felt a debt to the club, supporters and players. If he
were to walk out now it would mean he might forego a pay-off from his £1.9
million salary.

Club sources insisted on Friday that it was "by no means certain" that
Sullivan would sack Zola if West Ham lost on Saturday, although, given the
chairman's public criticisms earlier this week, the relationship between the
pair now appears to have collapsed.

Sullivan would require the permission of Straumur, the failed Icelandic bank
which still owns half of West Ham, to remove Zola.

Sullivan's co-chairman, David Gold, was at the training ground on Friday and
insisted that "Franco's our man" and there was "no question" of his being
sacked, adding that he [Gold] was "content with the way things are".

However, when Zola was asked directly whether he felt that the owners were
trying to get him to walk away, he said: "That is a good question. I don't
know. I understand the chairman, Mr Sullivan, is very much concerned about
the situation. We are not in a very good position and he is concerned. I am
concerned as much as him. I have faith in the players I am working with."

That faith does not appear to be shared by Sullivan who was at the club's
Chadwell Heath training ground on Thursday and addressed the players
himself. Among his criticisms – he has attacked the team, and therefore
Zola, whom he previously questioned as "too nice", for being poorly
organised and lacking in fight – was a claim that they were not fit enough.

Sullivan is understood to have been challenged by one senior player who told
him that it was harmful to make so many public comments attacking the squad.

Sullivan had also hoped to sit in on a team meeting with Zola but was asked
to leave by assistant manager Steve Clarke who, it is understood, was
annoyed and told the owner that he and Zola should be allowed to get on with
their work.

With tensions rising, Sullivan insisted to Telegraph Sport on Friday that he
did not "want to do anything that will hurt the team at this time". He has
also previously stressed that his track record at Birmingham City shows that
he not only supports managers but does not often make changes. He added: "We
only want to do what is best for WHU."

Zola has been asked by Sullivan to account for his training methods and
tactics, with the co-chairman also making it apparent in his open letter to
fans, which was posted on the club's website on Thursday and emailed to
season-ticket holders, that he expected changes to be made to the team after
the "pathetic" defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Tuesday which has
plunged the club into turmoil.

Zola accepts that he has made mistakes and is also responsible for the
team's plight but there is a sense that the pressure is taking its toll on
him, especially after the dismissal of technical director Gianluca Nani last
month.

Zola, it should be remembered, is still a managerial novice and when he was
appointed in September 2008 it was made clear that he would be primarily a
coach, working on the training pitches.

Mistakes have been made and a legitimate criticism of Zola is that he has
been naive at times and also shirked confrontation. His faith in certain
players also has to be questioned, while the balance of the squad is an
issue. That has much to do with financial constraints, with West Ham having
to sell to stave off the threat of administration.

Meanwhile the loss of Lucas Neill, who failed to agree a new contract, and
the sale of James Collins – which was insisted upon by Straumur and West
Ham's former chairman, Andrew Bernhardt, to finance the purchase of
Alessandro Diamanti – has hurt.

On Friday Zola said he had not spoken to Sullivan about his open letter –
which was dismissed as "irrelevant" by club captain Matthew Upson.

Upson has given no indication that, with one year left on his contract, he
will sign a new deal while the future of Robert Green is also in doubt.
Valon Behrami and Diamanti – whose signing has been questioned by Sullivan –
are also likely to go while there is little chance that Guillermo Franco
will be offered a new contract.

Of Sullivan's criticisms, Zola said: "The owner is entitled to have his
opinion and express it because he is the owner. However, when you use those
words, you have to be very careful how you use them because sometimes they
can be painful and cause more damage than you can imagine, and that could be
the case.

"I will keep my focus on my job, I have a responsibility and will turn it
into a positive thing for me and players." Pointedly, alluding to Sullivan's
letter, he added: "The good thing is that I do not need to motivate the
players with a team talk tomorrow, because they have already had one."

Asked whether the owners had asked him whether he would quit, Zola said:
"No, they didn't say anything about that. But there is no need to talk about
that. I don't want to hear that. I know my responsibilities and where my
position stands."

He added: "I have thinking about this situation and have been saying, 'What
the hell is going on here. It is a football game, Jesus Christ.' This is
what I think about. I question myself, 'Am I doing everything that I can?'
And I have to say 'yes'. I am doing it with passion. I am doing it with
honesty. So why should I be kicking myself or banging my head against the
wall?

''That is what I say. I love the game and I have a fair approach to it.
Sometimes things don't work. I don't understand. Maybe the job I am doing is
not good. But I do it with honesty. If it is not good they should just tell
me."

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PAUL MERSON: MATTHEW UPSON ISN'T GOOD ENOUGH
27th March 2010 By Sami Mokbel
Daily Star

JUST how Matthew Upson is England's third-choice central defender really is
beyond me. For me, Upson just hasn't been good enough at any point this
season. He came out this week and said the West Ham players needed to have a
long hard look at themselves after the 3-1 defeat against Wolves. Yes, there
are definitely a few players who need to have a look at themselves – and
Upson is one of those. I felt sorry for the young lad James Tomkins the
other night. He made that big mistake and it led to the opening goal – he
got the maximum punishment you can get for making a mistake. But Upson has
been making them all season and it hasn't really been noticed. But I'm sure
the West Ham supporters have noticed it. Somehow he has developed this false
reputation that has got him to the point where he is England's third-choice
centre-half. He was sold at Arsenal which suggests to me that he wasn't good
enough for Arsene Wenger. He did well at Birmingham – but to be fair any
half-decent central defender will look good when you have to defend for the
majority of the game, as Birmingham had to do that season. Remember, Upson
was the player who slipped against Egypt before they took the lead at
Wembley. Imagine if he did that against Brazil in the World Cup? Do you
reckon if he slips and gifts Brazil the opener, England will come back and
win 3-1? Absolutely no chance!
I know I wouldn't be totally comfortable with Upson partnering either John
Terry or Rio Ferdinand in the World Cup. We just have to pray either Rio or
Terry don't get injured.
But to be fair to Upson, he is just one of a number of problems West Ham
have got. Gianfranco Zola was so tactically inept in the embarrassing defeat
to Wolves at Upton Park.
I could see after 10 minutes that they were going to get battered – but
somehow Zola didn't see it and that is very worrying for the Hammers. Mick
McCarthy's side played a 4-5-1 and were overrunning West Ham in the middle
of the park. What Zola should have done was match Wolves' 4-5-1 and then
trust player for player that his team were better than Wolves. And no
disrespect to Wolves, but West Ham have got some top players in their side
and should have easily won. You can't get ripped apart like that at home
against one of your relegation rivals. I feel sorry for Scott Parker, who is
a top player and far too good for West Ham. He has never let them down but
I've not seen him moan at all. I've never seen him throw his arms up in the
air against his own players like Thierry Henry would before he left Arsenal
for Barcelona. He has been a credit to West Ham and if all the players
showed his level of commitment, then they wouldn't be in this trouble.

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