West Ham United Football Club News

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

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Zola hopes for Dyer impact

10 Apr 2009 - 09:47:36

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West Ham United manager Gianfranco Zola is hoping injury-plagued midfielder Kieron Dyer can play some part in their end of season fixtures.

The former England international has made just seven appearances since joining the Hammers in a £6million deal in the summer of 2007.

Dyer has recently returned to full training following a broken leg and Zola is hoping he can make an impact in the closing seven games of the campaign.

"We are trying to make it as easy as possible for Kieron," said the Italian coach.

"It would not be good for him if I played him more than I am right now.

"Every game we are trying to give him more time because we have faith in him. We know he is a good player but he hasn't played for a long time and still cannot play 90 minutes.

"Every time we are increasing the time on the pitch and also working hard in training with him.

"I'm looking forward to the possibility of playing him a little bit longer. I want to see him on the pitch for a long time.

"Now, fortunately, he is progressing very well and I'm looking forward to playing him for 90 minutes.

"Obviously I don't remember him at his best but I'm hoping I can see it this year."