Zola - It's a crucial week

Zola: Arsenal challenge

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Gianfranco Zola believes West Ham's next three matches could go a long way to deciding their fate.

The Hammers boss is preparing his side for a daunting trip to the Emirates Stadium on Saturday where they face title chasers Arsenal.

Defeat could see them out of the drop zone only on goal difference heading into crucial ties against Wolves and Stoke just days later.

West Ham have what looks to be the toughest fixture run-in of those in the mire, with matches against Everton, Liverpool and Manchester City still to play.

Fully aware of what lies ahead, Zola says the next seven days will be crucial to the Hammers' survival hopes.

Massive week

"The next few days will be very important for us," said the Hammers boss.

"We have massive games coming up. Tomorrow is a derby. It will be a difficult game and we will give our best because tomorrow's game will also be important for Tuesday and Saturday.

"It will be a massive week."

Zola's side played well in the first half against Chelsea but defensive errors let them down in the final third.

"I personally learned a lot and the players worked hard and kept themselves in the game until we made a mistake and they punished us for that," Zola said.

"When you play games against teams like Arsenal and Chelsea you can't afford to lose concentration. It has to be 100% for 90 minutes or else they will take advantage of any mistakes."

Tricky

The Italian chief is hoping his side can replicate or even better their point at the Emirates last season.

"Obviously on paper you can see that Arsenal are flying now," he said.

"They are playing against a West Ham side that hasn't been playing very well and our away form is not the best but football is football and sometimes it can be tricky.

"Last year we did very well and got a good point for us and we have a chance. I want to play this game."