GIANFRANCO ZOLA has rubbished reports that star striker Carlton Cole will leave West Ham during the January transfer window.
The 26-year-old has been persistently linked with a £20million move to Liverpool or Manchester United, who may look to cash in on the Hammers' financial problems.
However, Zola has moved quickly to quash the rumours and insists Cole is happy at Upton Park.
"Carlton is an important player for this team, not only because he scores goals but also for his presence,” the Italian 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."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here