Cheers for Sears

Freddie Sears received some warm words of encouragement from his manager after his efforts in the 0-0 draw with Portsmouth on Saturday

Robert Green caught the eye with some fantastic saves but Zola also singled out his England Under-19 striker for praise after the game. The 18-year-old had a lively 45 minutes before being replaced at half-time as the manager changed his formation around. 

Talking about the way his young charge has responded to one on one work, Zola said: "I'm really pleased with him. We try to give him some individual work but he sees the opportunity and he's working very hard in training sessions and his attitude is excellent. In the training sessions we are working a lot with the ball and this is making him sharp and improving him.

"It's all down to him, he's seen the opportunity and he's taken it.  He has a future as long as he keeps the right attitude in that sometimes he won't play. If he can keep positive then he will have a bright future. "