Gianfranco Zola struggling to explain slump

Gianfranco Zola is at a loss to explain West Ham United’s run of one point from the past six matches. The manager, who won his opening two league matches after taking charge in September, had a team meeting this week to clear up some defensive problems. “Everything went well at the start and then the problems came and it was such a shock,” Zola said. “We had a chat and confrontation and that was a positive thing and now we will see whether it delivers positive results. It is a test for me. It is not an easy one but I like it.”

Caborn calls for Ferguson

Richard Caborn, the former Sports Minister, says that Sir Alex Ferguson should be given first refusal to coach the Great Britain team at the 2012 Olympics. “If Sir Alex Ferguson can be persuaded, then he should have the job,” Caborn said. “It would be a great statement for British coaching.”

2 The number of defeats that Liverpool have suffered in their past 22 games, both at White Hart Lane

Fan incursion costs Celtic

Celtic have been fined 50,000 euros (about £42,800) by Uefa after a supporter ran on to the pitch during last week’s Champions League group E match against Manchester United at Celtic Park. Part of the fine was imposed for the late start to the game, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Celtic have declined the right to appeal against the fine. “We accept the judgment,” the club said.

And finally . . .

Rory Delap, the Stoke City player, has played down the possibility of representing Ireland in the 2012 Olympics — in the javelin. “They must be desperate if they are scraping the barrel for me,” he said. "I did javelin when I was a youngster but gave it up when I was 14 or 15 so I could concentrate on football. I represented the county so I was decent at it, but I don’t know if I am Olympic standard.”