West Ham United midfielder Scott Parker says manager Gianfranco Zola has no problem tearing strips off his players when needed.

Parker has no doubts Zola can lead the Hammers away from the dropzone.

"Gianfranco has that tough side," Parker said. "When you are so passionate about your football, as he is, whether you are a nice guy or not, that passion is going to come out. He's on the ball, knows what he wants, knows what he's doing.

"I know that everyone says nice men don't make good managers, but everybody in that changing room would back him to the hilt. It's been a difficult season for us. There isn't anyone to blame. We all just need to dig in."