HAMMERS STEP UP MATTHEW BATES CHASE

Boro defender's ideal replacement for Lucas Neill

 Matthew Bates
TARGET - Matthew Bates

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.

Your comments

This article has 0 comments

Post your comment here

We have to check every comment before we can allow it to be published. But don't worry, we've got a team on it 24/7 - so check back soon! Please note that we cannot publish all comments received. The editor's decision is final. Please note that your email address will not be displayed next to your comment.