ALAN Curbishley has received a vote of confidence from the Board of West Ham in the wake of the club's recent slump.

The Irons boss (pictured) has come under heavy fire from sections of the media and the West Ham crowd during the club's three consecutive 4-0 defeats.

But, in a statement released today, the club said: "The Board of West Ham recognise that recent results have been disappointing and frustrating for everyone connected to the club.

"However, there is no question of Alan Curbishley's future as manager being called into doubt.

"Alan, his staff and the players have done weel to put the club into the top half of the table, despite a massive injury list, and they have the full support of the board."

The statement follows speculation that Hammers owner Bjorgolfur "BG" Gudmundsson is lining up Curbishley's managerial replacement.

Concerns over thr 50-year-old's man-management style, player unrest and recruitment have all put his position in doubt.

And names have already been thrown into the hat should he be shown the exit door, including former favourite Slaven Bilic, ex-Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri, ex-Spurs boss Martin Jol and Dutch manager Marco Van Basten.

But the club added: "Of course, there are challenges to be met and further improvements needed to keep the Club moving forward.

"The board will work with Alan to ensure that the progress we have made is maintained and built on to deliver success and long-term stability for West Ham United."