Source: Team_Talk
Zola wants swift return to management
Gianfranco Zola has set his sights on a quick return to management after finally reaching a satisfactory financial settlement with West Ham.[LNB] Zola was sacked after the end of the season despite keeping the Hammers in the Barclays Premier League.[LNB]The club have since appointed former Portsmouth boss Avram Grant as Zola's successor.[LNB]It was Zola's first managerial post and although he enjoyed a fine first season, guiding the club to a ninth-placed finish and earning a new four-year contract, the Hammers struggled to avoid relegation last term.[LNB]David Gold and David Sullivan took over the club in January and Zola was apparently on borrowed time.[LNB]A number of negative public comments from Sullivan did not help Zola's situation and it was no surprise when the amiable Italian was relieved of his post.[LNB]But now Zola is looking forward to making a swift return to management.[LNB]"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at West Ham and I will always be very grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity to manage in the Premier League, especially at a club with such a great tradition in positive and attractive football," said Zola.[LNB]"I am looking forward to finding a new challenge in the game and returning to management as soon as possible.[LNB]"I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all of the players, staff and fans who supported me so well during my time at the club and I wish them every success for the future.[LNB]"I would also like to thank the League Managers Association for their support and hard work during the difficult period of my contract termination process."[LNB]LMA chief executive Richard Bevan backed Zola to make a quick return to the dugout.[LNB]"He is a talented young manager and I am sure he will be back working in the game, passing on his knowledge and sharing his enjoyment of football with a new group of players," said Bevan.[LNB]"The LMA shares Gianfranco's disappointment at him leaving West Ham but would like to acknowledge the club's assistance in resolving matters quickly and amicably.[LNB]"In his time as a manager Gianfranco demonstrated the passion and enthusiasm for the game that shone through when he was a player. He also achieved success in his first season with the Club, guiding West Ham to a ninth place finish in the Premier League."[LNB]A statement from West Ham concluded: "West Ham United would like to thank Gianfranco Zola for his efforts during his time at the club.[LNB]"We would like to thank both him and the LMA for their professionalism in reaching a satisfactory settlement and we wish Gianfranco well for the future."[LNB]
