Source: SKY_Sports
Upson hopes Zola stays
Matthew Upson believes West Ham should do all they can to ensure Gianfranco Zola pens a contract extension.
The Italian joined the Hammers in September following Alan Curbishley's resignation.
He has since led the club to within touching distance of European qualification for next season, with a top-seven finish now in sight.
Zola is currently working on a 12-month rolling contract, though, and Upson believes the 42-year-old is deserving of a more permanent deal.
"I don't know what his (Zola's) contract situation is but the longer he can stay at the club, the better. He has done brilliantly since he came in," said the England international.
"He has a very good relationship with the players, who all respect him and value his opinion, and I think next season will be very interesting for West Ham.
Respect
"He has a great tactical awareness. His man management skills are excellent. He has a lot of respect from the players probably because of the quality of player he was.
"If you are not a good manager, that soon wears out and he has come in and proven that he has got good managerial skills."
Upson is also confident the Hammers can sustain their push for a Europa League spot.
He said: "I think we can do that. Even though we do still have Chelsea and Liverpool to play, they are both home games.
"If we can get one or two players back fit before the end of the season just to strengthen the team and to give people a rest, there is no reason why we can't do it.
"We speak about a European spot regularly. It is a big target, a big goal for the club."
