Source: Daily_Mail
West Ham boss Zola asks Europa question
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola suggested last night that some Premier League teams may be dropping points deliberately in order to avoid playing in next season's Europa League.[LNB]The Italian's claim will be regarded as highly controversial both in England and at UEFA headquarters, as Europe's governing body prepare to replace the old UEFA Cup with a knockout format along the lines of the Champions League.[LNB]Teams from fifth to seventh in the Premier League should earn a European place, although it has proved a mixed blessing this season, with Aston Villa and Tottenham being criticised for fielding weakened teams to preserve their players for domestic competition.[LNB][LNB] Controversial: Zola's comments that Premier League teams are deliberately dropping points are unlikely to go down well in England and at Uefa[LNB] After his team's 1-0 victory at Stoke City yesterday, Zola said ofunnamed rivals in the top half of the Premier League: 'If they keepdropping points, if they don't want to take part in Europe, then I'mhappy with that. If they don't want to go to Europe maybe it is becausethey realise how many games you have to play.'[LNB]Zola is anxious to assure West Ham fans he will do everything toensure a place in Europe for the Londoners and then will go all out towin the new trophy.[LNB]He said: 'Of course I'm not going to simply participate (if we qualify). I will try very hard to win it.'[LNB] Stoke 0 West Ham 1: Tristan stunner puts Zola in seventh heavenFears rise over return of hooliganism as fans brawl at Stoke againWEST HAM UNITED FC
