WEST HAM boss Gianfranco Zola has praised the attitude of striker Craig Bellamy.

The fiery Wales international - who is pushing for a first start of the season in the Irons' clash with Bolton at Upton Park tomorrow - has been branded a 'troublemaker' in the past.

But Zola insisted that, so far, he has been nothing but impressed with the former 28-year-old as he battles back to full fitness.

"Craig's character is not a problem. I know he has his own character, a strong one, but I'm not asking him to change," said Zola.

"I just want him to play well on the pitch and get along with the others.

“He's doing that at the moment and is doing very well. If you want a winning team you need players with strong character.

"As long as they are positive characters, I don't mind them at all."

Zola added that Bellamy - who returned from a groin strain as a late substitute in the 2-1 win over Fulham last week - is close to pushing for a starting place in his side.

The Italian said: "This week he has worked very hard and very well. I'm very impressed with him. He is fit.

"He knows that the team is playing well and he will get his chance to play. He knows he is a very important part of this team.

"Against Fulham he played 20 minutes and maybe the next time he will play more, we will have to see.

"But even if he doesn't play straight away he knows that he's a very important player for this club."