WEST Ham United have sacked manager Gianfranco Zola, it has been confirmed.

The Italian has endured a torrid time at the east London club, which was locked in a relegation battle this season.

In a statement, West Ham's board, said: "West Ham United can confirm that they have terminated the contract of Gianfranco Zola.

"The Board of Directors would like to thank him for his contribution and wish him well for the future. The Club will now be focusing its efforts on seeking a replacement."

Earlier in the season, Saints manager Alan Pardew was linked with the Upton Park job, but has expressed his desire to stay at St. Mary's and get Saints promoted.

Pardew took West Ham up from the Championship as well as to within seconds of winning the 2006 FA Cup at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

With Pardew effectively ruling himself out of the running by confirming his commitment to Southampton, Pompey boss Avram Grant has been tipped as the most likely candidate for the job.

Others have included ex-West Ham defender and Croatia manager Slaven Bilic and former Manchester City boss Mark Hughes.

Ex-Hammers chief Alan Curbishley and Birmingham boss Alex McLeish, who has worked previously under West Ham's current owners David Gold and David Sullivan, have also been linked with the job.

One man who won't be taking over at Upton Park is ex-England manager Steve McLaren.

He had also been linked with West Ham but was named as the new manager of deposed German champions Wolfsburg this morning.

Odds for West Ham Job from SkyBet

Avram Grant 4/9

Mark Hughes 6/1
Alex McLeish 7/1
Martin Jol 12/1
Alan Curbishley 12/1
Alan Pardew 16/1
Nigel Pearson 16/1
Glenn Hoddle 16/1