Hammers offer new deals

16 February 2009 08:48
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is hoping to tie down a number of his squad in the coming weeks.[LNB] Scott Parker has just penned a new long-term deal - but Zola is now looking for Lucas Neill, Matthew Upson and Robert Green to follow suit.[LNB]The Hammers have shrugged off talk of financial problems off-the-field and they are showing this by offering fresh terms across their squad.[LNB]Zola is hoping captain Neill will soon extend his contract as his current deal expires in the summer.[LNB]"There are players that have been very important this season on and off the pitch," he said.[LNB]"They are the core of this team and I believe they can be the core of this team for a long time. [LNB]Stability"The club knows this and they are offering them contracts and they deserve that. It is good for stability. They are positive players and they will help us to build something important. Hopefully soon Lucas Neill will be signing a contract.[LNB]"Things are going well here we just need to understand that we want this to be for a long time. [LNB]"The idea is to make a blend of experienced players and young talented players to mix together and perform. The club has been fantastic this year. [LNB]"In difficult times, in difficult moments - such as when the team wasn't doing well and people kept talking badly about the club - the club kept their composure. [LNB]"They backed the team and support them all the time and now they are getting the reward for all the patience they had in those moments."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports