HAMMERS STEP UP MATTHEW BATES CHASE

Boro defender's ideal replacement for Lucas Neill

TARGET - Matthew Bates

06/06/2009

WEST HAM intend stepping up their pursuit of Matthew Bates after Lucas Neill rejected a new contract.

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola is looking to fill the right-back spot next season.

And the Italian sees relegated Middlesbrough's Bates, 22, as the perfect candidate to replace Neill.

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