Source: Daily_Mail
Gianfranco Zola settles with West Ham United and vows to return to management
Looking forward: Zola[LNB]Gianfranco Zola is looking for a swift return to management after reaching a settlement with West Ham United on the day Steve Clarke also left Upton Park.[LNB]The Italian was sacked last month with three years left on his £1.9million-a-year contract after guiding the Hammers to 17th in the Barclays Premier League.[LNB]A legal battle seemed to be looming as Zola was seeking a pay-off amid claims that he had breached his contract for public criticism of co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold.[LNB]However, both sides have found a compromise and the former Chelsea playmaker said: 'I thoroughly enjoyed my time at West Ham United and I will always be very grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity to manage in the Barclays Premier League, especially at a club with sucha great tradition in positive and attractive football. [LNB] Support: Scott Parker (No 8) leads the celebrations after scoring a crucial goal for West Ham against Wigan[LNB]'I would like to thank the League Managers Association for their support and hard work during the difficult period of my contract termination process. [LNB] 'I am looking forward to finding a new challenge in the game and returning to management as soon as possible.'[LNB]West Ham, who have since appointed former Portsmouth boss Avram Grant as Zola's replacement, said in a statement: 'West Ham United would like to thank Gianfranco Zola for his efforts during his time at the club. We wish Gianfranco well for the future.'[LNB]Former Chelsea defender Clarke, who was Zola's assistant, has left the club by mutual consent.[LNB]He said: 'I have enjoyed my time at West Ham. I was looking for a fresh challenge in football before I arrived and certainly got that.[LNB]'It was a good experience which will help me in the future. I would particularly like to thank the fans for all their support and the players and staff for their efforts.[LNB]'I will follow the club's progress with interest and I am sure, with the new stability off the pitch, that the team will have every opportunity to do well next season.'[LNB] Green in World Cup shop window as West Ham fail to offer new dealAvram's green light to take over at West Ham as Home Office Grant work permit Petrov to spark bidding war after being released by Manchester CityWest Ham preparing fresh move for Yakubu as Avram seeks reunionWEST HAM UNITED FC
