WEST HAM boss Gianfranco Zola is looking for his team to give a similarly gritty performance as the one that saw them edge past Sunderland last time the two sides met, although they will have to do it without star striker Carlton Cole.

Back then, a first goal of his Hammers' career for Valon Behrami proved the difference, as the Irons began their turnaround from relegation candidates and began to head in the right direction up the table.

However, as well as Behrami – missing with a long-term knee injury - West Ham will also be without key figure Cole, who will be out for up to six weeks with a groin injury.

Zola acknowledges that the striker's absence could be crucial.

“I think we are talking about six weeks, so he'll be missing a few games that are important for us, but hopefully we'll have him back before the end,” said the Italian. “I'm very sorry for him, he is a player that has been very important for us and very influential, so not to have him could be very costly for us, but what can I do?

“It's a pity but he's just been unlucky. Simple as that.”

Looking back to the Sunderland game, Zola accepted that it was the turning point for his new charges.

“It was really difficult for us because we were only two points above the relegation zone and that was the closest we've been to that point,” he said. “The team reacted very well, and from that moment, the team has built up, especially defensively, a kind of strength that has enabled us to turn things around.”

Zola will also welcome back Matthew Upson, James Collins and Savio for the visit of the Black Cats.