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Premier League

West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola is confident he can hang onto star striker Carlton Cole despite interest from other clubs.

Cole has been linked with moves to both Manchester United and Liverpool in recent weeks after catching the eye with a number of impressive performances for both club and country.

But Zola insists the former Chelsea hitman is happy at West Ham and that the club have no plans to sell the 26-year-old international in January despite reported financial problems.

"Carlton is an important player for this team, not only because he scores goals but also for his presence," Zola told The Sun.

"I know Carlton wants to stay and is happy here. The club has no intention of selling him or any of our important players.

"He plays for us and we're very happy with him.

"We're going to make sure we can help him keep on scoring."

West Ham welcome Burnley to Upton Park on Saturday, looking to drag themselves out of potential danger as they hover just above the relegation zone on goal difference.