Green and Upson set to follow Parker in agreeing new deals at West Ham

16 February 2009 11:57
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola today hinted that England pair Robert Green and Matthew Upson could soon be offered new, long-term contracts. [LNB] Green and Upson were two players who attracted interest during the January transfer window. A third, Scott Parker, has just signed an improved deal and captain Lucas Neill could soon follow. [LNB] Robert Green[LNB] Matthew Upson[LNB] 'There are players here who are the core of this team now and for a long time to come,' said boss Zola, whose team, provided they beat Middlesbrough in next week's FA Cup replay having drawn 1-1 on Saturday, have been drawn away to Everton in the quarter-finals. [LNB]'These are people like Matthew Upson, Robert Green, Scott Parker and Lucas Neill. Things are going well here but we just need to understand that we want this for a long time.'[LNB]Hammer blow: Carlton Cole receives treatment on his ankle.[LNB] Meanwhile, Carlton Cole is expected to be out for a fortnight with the ankle sprain he suffered at the weekend.[LNB]The 25-year-old, who made his England debut last week against Spain, limped out of the clash against MIddlesbrough on Saturday after just 33 minutes.[LNB]There were fears the striker had suffered a serious injury but a statement fromthe club read: 'A positive X-ray on Sunday showed no fracture and, ahead of anMRI scan to come, it is hoped the sprain could lead to only a two-week absenceat worst.'[LNB]However, main striker Dean Ashton is out for the rest of the season after having a third ankle operation.[LNB] West Ham 1 Boro 1: Zola's core values give Hammers reason to be hopeful[LNB]Parker pens new West Ham deal to remain at Upton Park until 2013[LNB]WEST HAM UNITED FC NEWS FROM ACROSS THE NET[LNB][LNB] [LNB]  

Source: Daily_Mail