Zola: ‘Players are trying very hard’

Gianfranco Zola remained calm in the wake of the storm after Blues` 3-1 defeat at home to Brentford yesterday, his third defeat from four games since taking the reins. When asked to share his views on the defeat and the chanting of his predecessors name, the Italian said – “its life. If you are happy to stay the way you are, then it`s ok”.

Zola continued to discuss the style of play he is trying to implement at St. Andrews – “maybe I`m wrong but what we`re trying to do is not something I`m not sure about”. He continued- “We try to implement something similar to what they just did and the ambition is to be better all the time so I don`t think I am asking for too much”.

Blues have twice surrendered leads at home under Zola`s watch after playing some attractive football in the first half against Brighton and Brentford. The 50 year-old has demanded more bravery from his players as he tries to drill home his footballing mantra. Zola said- “So far they have been doing it very well but when difficult moments come, you have to keep doing what you have to do, what you`ve been taught to do and you have to be brave”.

The Blues manager went on to praise the efforts of his players. “They are trying very hard and I appreciate that very much. I will give everything I have to give these players the support they need and the tranquility on the pitch that they need to be able to play the way we want them to play”.

Former Birmingham Mail and Daily Express journalist, John Wragg, was in attendance at Zola`s post-match press conference yesterday and said- “Zola is a smashing man and well liked in football. However, pressure will build if results don`t pick up”.

Wragg also confirmed that Zola is active in the transfer market. “Zola said yesterday that he was in advanced talks with players and hopes to bring in a couple soon”.

*Words from press conference provided by John Wragg, Freelance Journalist.