Source: SKY_Sports
Zola backs Green campaign
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola has championed Robert Green's bid to establish himself as England's first choice goalkeeper.
The Italian has been greatly impressed by Green's performances during his debut campaign at Upton Park and believes Fabio Capello could do a lot worse than employ his player when David James eventually hangs up his gloves.
There has been talk of Arsenal's Manuel Almunia turning his back on Spain to play for England but Zola insists Capello would be better off looking closer to home.
"He has been one of my key players, he has been great," Zola said.
"He had a few problems at the beginning of the season but after that he has just changed and has been different class.
"I can say, if he plays for England, he's going to be a very good goalkeeper for England.
"He can be easily the number one, and that doesn't come because he is my goalkeeper - it's because I see he's very good. He gives you so much security."
It has taken a while for Green to be called up by Capello, and Zola feels his goalkeeper has shown plenty of character to keep going when he was out of favour.
"He has had disappointments in the past internationally, not being selected for squads but he has never let his head drop, he has always been very positive, always kept his spirits up," he added.
"He is a strong man. He has got a strong personality, he doesn't let anybody let him down. It's a good point."
Zola is confident that Green will follow the example of himself and assistant boss Steve Clarke by signing a new contract to stay at the club.
The Hammers boss wants to keep the current squad together and add only a few players over the summer.
"I don't think we need more than that, maybe two or three players that might be coming in," Zola said.
