Source: Daily_Mail
Embattled Gianfranco Zola says West Ham can cause a shock at Everton
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola believes his side can improve theirchances of Barclays Premier League survival by springing a surpriseagainst Everton tomorrow. [LNB]The Hammers are in a relegation scrap as they prepare to face DavidMoyes' side at Goodison Park tomorrow afternoon, having lost six gameson the bounce.[LNB] Under pressure: Gianfranco Zola facing Toffeemen test[LNB] WEST HAM UTD FC: All the latest news from across the webWe have no case to answer! Hodgson scoffs at West Ham's Fulham complaintTHE FIRING LINE: The clock is ticking for Hammers boss Gianfranco ZolaZola was forced to consider his future following last week's defeat against Stoke, while he has also had to deal with criticism from co-owner David Sullivan, who in a letter to supporters branded the team's performance in their 3-1 loss against Wolves as 'shambolic'. [LNB]They will face an Everton side who are unbeaten in five matches and chasing a place in next year's Europa League. [LNB] Zola could be boosted by the return of Jack Collison and James Tomkins for tomorrow's clash, and the Italian believes his side are capable of causing an upset.[LNB] 'It is going to be a tight game, especially at the beginning,' said the 43-year-old. 'Obviously we will be trying to defend well because they are in good form. I see us playing a good game. [LNB]Goodison return: Jack Collison could make a comeback[LNB]'We have prepared very well so I'm positive about that. I'm expecting we will defend well and be effective on the counter-attack, and we can nick one or two goals on the break.' [LNB] Zola returned to training on Wednesday after deciding to return to his native Sardinia following last Saturday's damaging defeat against the Potters. [LNB]Zola was criticised by some observers for giving himself and his players three days off with the club in such a precarious position, but Zola insists the move is showing signs of paying off. [LNB]'The mood is now very good in the camp, trust me,' said the former Chelsea striker. [LNB]'I have no regrets about sending them home for three days at all. I am the manager and I know what's best for my players. [LNB]'Their application in training has always been good to be honest and has been even better this week.' [LNB] Zola believes the break has made his squad even more united. [LNB]He said: 'We are very much a unit. Everybody here knows that we are not doing a very good job right now - the players, myself, the staff, everybody - but we are trying very hard and are committed. [LNB]'I had a lot of support and I am blessed to be surrounded by people who are very supportive of me. That is such an important thing. [LNB]'Once you get that support that is the most important thing. [LNB]'Everything you do, you do it for them. I have had a lot of support from the players and a lot of other people.' [LNB] Co-owner Sullivan's controversial decision to describe the performance against Wolves as 'shambolic' angered Zola, and defender Matthew Upson said the comments would not help. [LNB]The letter was seen by some as a move designed to inspire the players to prove Sullivan wrong. [LNB]Zola now wants to forget the row and insists he is concentrating on on-the-field matters only. [LNB]'Whether it helped or not I don't know but for me it is the end of the story,' said Zola. 'My mind is on other things. If I go back to those episodes I can give you my opinion but it's not necessary. [LNB]'What has been is not important. The focus has to be on Sunday's game.'[LNB] WEST HAM UTD FC: All the latest news from across the webWe have no case to answer! Hodgson scoffs at West Ham's Fulham complaintTHE FIRING LINE: The clock is ticking for Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola [LNB] [LNB]
