Gianfranco Zola sacked by West Ham as owners boot out Italian after miserable season

By Sportsmail Reporter Updated: 13:29 EST, 11 May 2010

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West Ham have announced that manager Gianfranco Zola has been sacked.

The Italian managed just seven home wins in the recent campaign as the Hammers battled against relegation for much of the season.

Glenn Hoddle leads the early frontrunners to replace him in the Upton Park hotseat.

Zola said: 'I am extremely disappointed to be leaving West Ham United. Over recent weeks, I have been the subject of various adverse comments, from within the club, which have been widely reported in the media.

Hammer time-up: West Ham have sacked manager Gianfranco Zola

'Despite what has been a very difficult period for me, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at West Ham. I would like to sincerely thank the players and my staff for their continued support, hard work and commitment.

'I extremely proud of their efforts, over a long and difficult season, in retaining West Ham’s place in the Barclays Premier League.

'West Ham is a great club, with fantastic supporters and I wish the club every success in the future.'

Lowest point: The knives were out for Zola after a crushing 3-1 defeat at home to fellow strugglers Wolves

The Hammers finished fourth from bottom in the Barclays Premier League, five points above Burnley. In 80 games, Zola won just 23 while losing 36, a success rate of just 29 per cent.

He joined the club in September 2008 following Alan Curbishley's resignation. His only previous managerial experience came with Italy Under-21s.

After a solid start to life in east London, Zola struggled badly and was criticised by new co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold.

A statement on the club website said: 'West Ham United confirm that they have terminated the contract of Gianfranco Zola.

'The board of directors would like to thank him for his contribution and wish him well for the future. The Club will now be focusing its efforts on seeking a replacement.'

Short stay: It was all smiles when Zola was unveiled in September 2008 but things soon turned sour

Zola was a popular figure in the Upton Park dressing room and is widely expected that several players will follow the Italian out of the door.

In a particularly poignant celebration during last month's win over Wigan, Scott Parker ran to his manager after scoring the winner.

He, along with England players Matthew Upson and Rob Green are attracting interest from Premier League clubs, while Valon Behrami has been targeted by a host of Italian clubs.

Sullivan and Gold recently admitted that financial worries were such that the entire squad, excluding Parker, were up for sale.

Time for change: David Sullivan (left) and David Gold have voiced concerns about Zola ever since they bought West Ham

Zola added: 'The termination process of my contract is now in the hands of the LMA and I therefore will be making no further comment at this stage.'

Commenting on Zola's departure, LMA Chief Executive, Richard Bevan, said: 'Clear communication and a supportive framework at the top of a football club are essential for stability and delivering results.

'Gianfranco has had to manage his team through a period of significant uncertainty at the club and has shown dedication, resilience and commitment to his players, staff and the fans.

'Without a doubt Gianfranco is a talented young manager and I am sure that in the fullness of time he will be back working in the game.'