Green disappointed by departure

  • by Staff Writer
  • Tuesday, 1st June 2010

Robert Green has called the sacking of Gianfranco Zola 'disappointing'.

The England goalkeeper, who is expected by many to get the nod over David James and Joe Hart as number one for this summer's World Cup Finals was Zola's number one during his entire spell as manager - and it is a working relationship that Green will sadly miss.

Talking to the BBC ahead of joining up with his international team mates as they begin preparation for the tournament, Green said: "I spoke to him just after he left. I was obviously disappointed for him because's he's been a tremendous manager and a tremendous man in difficult times.

"It wasn't particularly a great surprise but it was disappointing. He worked so hard for the club's cause in difficult circumstances. You look at the squad being decimated by sales and injuries and having a tough season and you look at what previous manager's have had to spend in recent years and the success they've bought as opposed to who he's had to sell.

"So in that respect it's difficult for him but people make their decisions. The new owners have come in and made their decision and that's it. You get on with it and I'm sure that whoever comes in is going to be a great success."

Green, who is expected to start for England when their World Cup campaign kicks off against the United States in Rustenburg on June 12th admitted that he was as in the dark as anyone else with regards to who will get the nod - but also flattered by comments from former England goalkeeper Peter Shilton, who has backed the West Ham number one to get the shirt.

"To get the support of a living legend is a wonderful thing and I'm obviously delighted," he said. "Hopefully his thoughts and sentiments are repeated by the manger; we'll see."

* Something to say about this story? Please visit the KUMB Forum to leave a comment.



More News