West Ham United have sacked manager Gianfranco Zola after a traumatic season which nearly ended in relegation.

Zola, who took charge in September 2008, led the side to just seven home wins in a campaign disrupted by public criticism from the club's new co-owners, David Sullivan and David Gold. They finished fourth from bottom, five points above Burnley.

The announcement was made following a meeting between Zola and the owners to discuss the club's future structure. The future of his assistant Steve Clarke is unclear.

Mark Hughes and Slaven Bilic have been linked with the vacancy.

A club statement said: "West Ham United can confirm that they have terminated the contract of Gianfranco Zola.

"The Board of Directors would like to thank him for his contribution and wish him well for the future. The club will now be focusing its efforts on seeking a replacement."