Hammers boss Zola determined to fight on in battle against relegation
Zola returned home to Sardinia following Saturday’s 1-0 defeat by Stoke that left his side on the brink of the relegation zone.
The Italian admitted he would consider his future over the weekend but after a time of reflection Zola decided he was in no mood to quit.
“I am determined to carry on,” declared Zola. “Losing on Saturday was emotional for everyone but I know we can turn it around and we have the ability to achieve our objectives.”
West Ham’s performances have come under fire from co-owner David Sullivan but Zola says he had a supportive conversation with him and co-owner David Gold after the Stoke defeat.
“They have backed me and I am grateful,” added Zola. “My only thought for now is to keep this club in the Premier League. I’ll give everything I can to make this happen. I have had time to think and we will have to work harder than we have before. I know we can get the results we need and it is just a question of making it happen.
“The performance was better on Saturday but it is still not the level we should be at. We can, and will, do better. I have a great staff and we will work together to find the solutions. We have a responsibility to turn things around and that is what we will do.
“I am here and I am ready to do what I need to do to get the results.”
Meanwhile Ipswich chief executive Simon Clegg has dismissed reports that manager Roy Keane’s job is under threat. Keane took over in April 2009 but Town are 16th in the Championship, nine points clear of relegation and 13 adrift of the last play-off place.
Clegg said yesterday: “I’m fully committed to Roy Keane. It’s been a disappointing season but Roy is still building his team.
“Roy is just starting out to get us where we want to be.”
Following Saturday’s 0-0 draw at Swansea, Keane insisted: “I’m very proud to be manager of Ipswich and, please God, that will continue.”
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