West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola says he needed his time away last week in Sardinia to recharge.

Zola spent his time off back in his native Sardinia where he considered his future.

But he decided to return to try to haul the Hammers away from the drop. Zola said: "I never really wanted to leave but Sunday was tough for me. Really tough, trust me.

"Losing to Stoke was very emotional. Sunday was one of the toughest days I've had as a manager. But it didn't last too long because Sardinia can do miracles! I ate and relaxed - but I'm delighted to be back. I love spending time with the players and helping them.

"We are very much a unit. Everybody knows we are not doing a very good job right now. The players, my staff, myself, everybody. But are we are all very committed to the cause. I don't like to leave things undone."