West Ham boss Zola won't sway from principles

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is adamant he won't sway from his principles after new owners David Gold and David Sullivan accused the Italian of being too nice.

The Hammers supremo is well known for his positive approach and rarely criticises his players leading calls from his bosses to get tough.

"I am what I am and I believe in what I do and I think we can produce good results.

"I don't understand this," he said. "I stick to my philosophy and this won't change it.

"I've answered this question so many times. Do I have to be horrible to do the job?

"I can be horrible if you want. I don't understand this. Everybody has their own way of doing things.

"If I did my job a different way I would be a failure. I am what I am. I believe in what I do.

"I stick to my philosophy and this won't change it. If I was asked to do something different, I would prefer to do something else.

"I respect the owners. They are different from me. But I've got principles. I'm not going to let anyone walk on my principles."

And Zola pulled no punches in his desire to stay at the club.

"I am too connected and tied up to the players. I have a relationship with them and the supporters," he said.

"I don't like to leave situations unfinished but I am a person with principles and I won't allow anybody to walk over my principles or my person. I hope that gives you an idea.

"Would I walk away from this job? No. I have a relationship with the players and the supporters and I don't want to leave situations unfinished.