Source: Team_Talk
Zola plots route to recovery
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola believes his side can improve their chances of survival by springing a surprise against Everton on Sunday.[LNB] The Hammers are in a relegation scrap as they prepare to face David Moyes' side at Goodison Park on Sunday afternoon, having lost six games on the bounce.[LNB]Zola was forced to consider his future following last week's defeat against Stoke, while he has also had to deal with criticism from co-owner David Sullivan, who in a letter to supporters branded the team's performance in their 3-1 loss against Wolves as "shambolic".[LNB]They will face an Everton side who are unbeaten in five matches and chasing a place in next year's Europa League.[LNB]Zola could be boosted by the return of Jack Collison and James Tomkins for tomorrow's clash, and the Italian believes his side are capable of causing an upset.[LNB]"It is going to be a tight game, especially at the beginning," said the 43-year-old.[LNB]"Obviously we will be trying to defend well because they are in good form. I see us playing a good game.[LNB]"We have prepared very well so I'm positive about that. I'm expecting we will defend well and be effective on the counter-attack, and we can nick one or two goals on the break."[LNB]Zola returned to training on Wednesday after deciding to return to his native Sardinia following last Saturday's damaging defeat against the Potters.[LNB]Zola was criticised by some observers for giving himself and his players three days off with the club in such a precarious position, but Zola insists the move is showing signs of paying off.[LNB]"The mood is now very good in the camp, trust me," said the former Chelsea striker.[LNB]"I have no regrets about sending them home for three days at all. I am the manager and I know what's best for my players.[LNB]"Their application in training has always been good to be honest and has been even better this week."[LNB]Zola believes the break has made his squad even more united.[LNB]He said: "We are very much a unit. Everybody here knows that we are not doing a very good job right now - the players, myself, the staff, everybody - but we are trying very hard and are committed.[LNB]"I had a lot of support and I am blessed to be surrounded by people who are very supportive of me. That is such an important thing.[LNB]"Once you get that support that is the most important thing.[LNB]"Everything you do, you do it for them. I have had a lot of support from the players and a lot of other people."[LNB]Co-owner Sullivan's controversial decision to describe the performance against Wolves as "shambolic" angered Zola, and defender Matthew Upson said the comments would not help.[LNB]The letter was seen by some as a move designed to inspire the players to prove Sullivan wrong.[LNB]Zola now wants to forget the row and insists he is concentrating on on-the-field matters only.[LNB]"Whether it helped or not I don't know but for me it is the end of the story," said Zola.[LNB]"My mind is on other things. If I go back to those episodes I can give you my opinion but it's not necessary.[LNB]"What has been is not important. The focus has to be on Sunday's game."
