Unhappy Zola eyes Europe

20 March 2009 08:02
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola wants his side to push on this season and seal a place in Europe. The Hammers are currently seventh in the league - which if the current top-four stays as is, will be enough to seal a place in next season's revamped Uefa Cup - the Europa League. Whilst Zola wants to land a place in Europe - he is unhappy with the proposed new league format. "Years ago, this competition was more attractive and that is something that maybe should be thought about for the future," said Zola. "For me, it is nonsense. But I have the same idea about the Champions League, really. For me, It does not have the same attractiveness as it had before. "Before, it was a proper Champions League. To participate, you had to come first." Despite his concerns, Europe is very much in the Italian's mind. "We have not been in Europe for a while," he continued. "I played in Europe many years ago and I know how good it is to play in those competitions, not only for the silverware you can get but also, for the players, it is an opportunity to improve as if you play abroad you always improve. I wish we can achieve that."

Source: SKY_Sports