Zola: I’m to blame for plight

West Ham United manager Gianfranco Zola says he is to blame for the team's current plight.

With almost half of the season gone, the Hammers are entrenched in the relegation zone, but after the midweek loss to Bolton Wanderers, assistant boss Steve Clarke said he should shoulder the responsibility for the team's poor displays.

The former Chelsea stalwart had said: "I'm the guy that was brought in to help Gianfranco. He's a novice manager, just in the game, so if anybody wants to points fingers, then point them at me."

However, Zola disagrees, telling the Evening Standard:"Steve doesn't have to take responsibility. I understand what he was trying to do but I am the manager. Everything which happens here is my responsibility and I have to take it.

"I am sorry I didn't talk to the press after the Bolton game but we thought a change would have been good because I had spoken after the Birmingham match only three days earlier.

"Nobody has to be blamed for this situation other than me. The players are doing what they've been asked to do and I have no criticism of them.

"It is a tough moment and certainly circumstances haven't been with us but I repeat it is my responsibility."

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