Gianfranco Zola's relationship with the owners of West Ham United appeared strained beyond repair last night, when he spoke of his deep frustration at being undermined over transfer policy.

West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola has hit out at joint-owners David Sullivan and David Gold for undermining his position after he discovered about the club's transfer dealings in the newspapers.

To be playing in the Premier League with one of your idols as the manager might faze many young men, as might the current rumours that a new owner could immediately sack him. Jack Collison has taken it in his stride, just as he has most things while establishing himself in the West Ham and Wales midfield this past year.

Players' chief Gordon Taylor is hopeful that Dean Ashton will not need to resort to taking legal action against former England team-mate Shaun Wright-Phillips after the West Ham man was forced to announce his retirement today.

West Ham and England striker Dean Ashton today announced his retirement from professional football.

A council issued an apology to children and parents yesterday after inspectors labelled its attempts to look after its most vulnerable young people "inadequate". Dean Ashton, head of children's services in Cornwall, resigned ahead of the Ofsted report.

Cornwall County Council has been condemned by Ofsted inspectors for failing to protect the most vulnerable children.

One of the game's outstanding coaches is back in the dug-out today, though he would rather be on some windswept Astroturf, developing a promising young talent.

West Ham have completed the signing of Mexico international striker Guillermo Franco.

I can’t remember it being easier to pick the Super League Dream Team. I’m just not sure whether that’s a good thing or a bad thing.