FORMER West Ham favourite Slaven Bilic is reportedly being lined up to replace Alan Curbishley as Irons boss in the summer.

The club's board stated yesterday that they had full confidence in Curbishley despite a string of dismal performances.

However, the Daily Mail has reported that should the Hammers continue to struggle, then Bilic - who made 48 appearances for the east Londoners between 1996 and 1997 - would be the board's favoured choice to replace the 50-year-old.

Media reports have also connected Bilic (pictured) with a coaching role at German side SV Hamburg.

The 39-year-old is currently in charge of the Croatian national team but has expressed an interest in working in the Premier League.

Meanwhile, another Hammers legend, Paolo Di Canio, has announced his retirement from the game after struggling with a string of injuries and would be a popular candidate amongst the fans for the manager's hot seat should Curbishley get the boot.

The 39-year-old has spent the last two seasons in a coaching capacity with Italian minnows Cisco Roma and has also spoken of his desire to step into management in recent weeks.