Everton defender Phil Jagielka backs under-fire West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola

Everton defender Phil Jagielka has backed Gianfranco Zola to guide West Ham United away from relegation and to Premier League safety. 

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The Toffees stopper believes that interference from those above Zola at Upton Park has made the manager's job difficult but his experience as a player will aid the little Italian.

"I think Zola is a good manager but it's been hard with what's gone on upstairs at West Ham," Jagielka told Everton's official website.

"If he can get this season out the way and finish as strong as possible then he will be looking to kick on next season.

"He can use the experience he's got as a player to make him into a great manager. I have been surprised that West Ham have been in a relegation fight this season.

"I think there has been a lot of talk off the pitch about them having to sell their best players and reports that the club wasn't financially stable. Those off the field activities haven't really helped them."

Everton take on the Hammers on Sunday, with Zola's men having only won once on the road all season. However, Jagileka believes with the squad the Italian possesses, the Toffees should not be complacent.

"The squad they have got is still good and they have some great players but I think the main word for their season is consistency," he said.

"They haven't put four or five good results together that would see them climb up the table."

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