Source: Daily_Mail
Gianfranco Zola's survival battle at West Ham inspired by Bill Shankly
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola has evoked the words of the great Bill Shanklyas he looks at his side's battle for Premier League survival.[LNB]The legendary Liverpool manager once famously said football was much more important than life or death and Zola gave his own version after his team's battling 2-2 draw at Everton still left them just a point above the relegation zone.[LNB]The Hammers boss said: 'I wouldn't say the last five games are a matter of life ordeath but it is very close. We know what football is like. We are determined to fightuntil the end.'[LNB] Fighting: Gianfranco Zola[LNB]Legend: Bill Shankly[LNB] West Ham have five games to preserve their top-flight status butwill be without captain Scott Parker for two of them. The midfielder,29, will miss West Ham's game at home to Sunderland on Saturday and thetrip to Liverpool on April 19 after pickingup a 10th booking at Goodison Park.[LNB]Zola said: 'Parker has been very good. He is one of those who leadsby example. We are going to miss him but I am sure, with this spirit,everyone else will work harder tomake sure it's not too much.'[LNB]The West Ham manager was criticised for giving his players threedays off last week, but Zola said Sunday's result justified hisdecision. He said: 'They had played three tough games in seven days three defeats. It was necessary for them to clear theirminds and then come back to train hard.'[LNB] West Ham are United! Matthew Upson backs 'together' Hammers to beat the drop Fulham can rest who they like! West Ham complaint dismissed by Cottagers defender Aaron HughesWEST HAM FC
