WEST HAM boss Gianfranco Zola remains confident that he can lure more strikers to Upton Park before the transfer window is out, while he also reiterated his desire to hang on to his brightest stars.

The Italian manager recognises the need for a stronger presence up front, following the departures of David Di Michele, Diego Tristan and Freddie Sears on loan to Crystal Palace.

That, coupled with the prolonged absence of injured striker Dean Ashton, has seen more pressure heaped on to the shoulders of last season’s top scorer Carlton Cole.

Zola got the perfect response from his players on Saturday against Wolverhampton Wander-ers. Midfielder Mark Noble and centre-back Matthew Upson heeded their manager’s rallying cry for the rest of the team to contribute in the goals department as the team got their campaign off to a flier with a 2-0 victory.

However, the gaffer is well aware that reinforcements are required to make the Hammers a potent threat going forward this season.

“I am sure that it would not do us any harm if we had some more striking force! I am sure that the club is doing everything they can to fill that space for a striker. I rely on them and we’ll see what happens,” said Zola.

He also remains steadfast in his attempts to hang on to the club’s key players, with speculation over Upson’s future still doing the rounds in the national press, while an agreement is yet to be struck with defender Lucas Neill, whose contract expired at the end of last year.

“Matthew Upson realises that he is a good player and that there might be teams who are looking at him,” admitted Zola.

“We have had no offers for him and we are very pleased that he is here. I think he is enjoying his football and he’s looking forward to this season because it’s going to be vital for his career.

“As far as I’m concerned we are looking to buy some players not to sell them.”

He was also glad to see Kieron Dyer return to form with an impressive display.

“I was very pleased with Kieron Dyer. He had a very positive game and caused them so many problems.

“We know that when Kieron’s fit he can make the difference and that was the case today. If Kieron can keep his consistency, then he can be as good as anybody. I am looking forward to seeing him playing.”