West Ham United defender Matthew Upson has hailed the impact made by manager Gianfranco Zola since his arrival a year ago.

"He brings a togetherness to the team," said Upson, speaking on the club's website. "His man-management has been very good and every player here would voice the opinion that they are really enjoying working with him."

Zola has made Upson captain and he added: "The captaincy hasn't changed the way I approach the game. You are probably aware of the responsibility a little bit more on the pitch but it doesn't affect the way I play.

"There is a bit more to do behind the scenes and off the pitch - organising this, that and the other - but I am really relishing that and enjoying settling into the role."