West Ham United Football Club

• Nickname:Hammers
• Founded:1895
• Manager:Sam Allardyce

• Ground:Upton Park
• Capacity:35595

Zola aims to keep hold of stars

04 Jan 2010 - 08:16:49

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Gianfranco Zola has admitted the key to West Ham United's season could well be keeping his squad together during the transfer window.

Speaking after Sunday's 2-1 FA Cup third round defeat to Arsenal at Upton Park, Zola admitted he has been buoyed by reports of several potential suitors queuing up to buy the cash-strapped club.

England internationals Robert Green, Carlton Cole and Matthew Upson are three prize assets who could be sold should the Hammers need to raise money, but Zola is hoping that now doesn't need to happen.

"Bringing somebody in would be nice, but I hope that the team at least remains the same, that is the most important thing because, when we have everybody back, it is going to be a different story," said the Italian coach.

"Everybody knows the financial situation. I think we have stability and do not have big problems.

"I am not expecting to have anybody leaving. If it will change, I do not know, but I am hoping not."