Danny Gabbidon has vowed to overcome his West Ham injury nightmare and repay the faith shown in him by manager Gianfranco Zola

Danny Gabbidon has vowed to overcome his West Ham injury nightmare and repay the faith shown in him by manager Gianfranco Zola.

The Wales defender has not played for the Hammers since December 2007 following a serious groin injury, which cast doubt on his ability to return to top-level football.

Wales manager John Toshack last year questioned whether the 29-year-old would ever return to action after 15 months without an international appearance.

But Gabbidon is on the way back after stepping up his rehabilitation this month and the 2005 Hammer of the Year is desperate to reward West Ham boss Zola for his patience and encouragement.

"I've been to see a few different people and the club have been really good and anything that I've wanted they have done," Gabbidon said.

"I'm working hard and trying to get back to training and once I get to that stage it's about getting back into the team, which is doing very well at the moment.

"I've spoken to the manager a few times and he has been really good to me. When you've been out for a while you can think you are the forgotten man. But he asks how I am, how I'm feeling and when I'm coming back.

"It's nice to know the manager is thinking about you. He's been really good.