Zola was furious a fortnight ago when he said that he would not be undermined following co-owner David Sullivan's criticism of the club's wage structure.

But they responded with a 2-0 home win over Birmingham in their last outing and the Italian now says the matter has been firmly put to bed.

"It's an old story which has been discussed too much," Zola said.

"There is a better atmosphere because there isn't so much talking or speculation now. That has helped the situation."

Zola now accepts that the takeover of the club in January by former Birmingham co-owners Sullivan and David Gold has improved West Ham's chances of Premier League survival.

"They want to improve the situation financially and also as a team," he explained.

"We have not suffered any problems because they are looking after us. Nothing has changed. The new board came in and brought in three players to help us.

"The club are trying to make the situation better, that is important and we do not have a problem with that. I told the chairmen they can do what is necessary for the good of the club."

Zola's side face a vital clash tomorrow when fellow relegation strugglers Hull visit Upton Park. West Ham sit 15th in the Barclays Premier League, just one point above the bottom three, and with a trip to Manchester United lurking on Tuesday night, the former Chelsea striker believes it is vital that the Hammers extend their four-game unbeaten run at home in the league.

He added: "It's a massive game. We don't just need to win one game every now and again, we need to put some wins together in a row.

"We know if we don't perform well we will be in trouble. All the games are difficult and we know everything has to be right.

"I know the players have difficult times out there and the manager and staff have to always be supportive. That's what we try to do and it makes a big difference when people respond to that."

The fixture against Hull marks the end of a 10-day break since the victory against Birmingham, and Zola feels the rest will help his team create a gap between themselves and the bottom three.

He added: "It has allowed us to get players back like (Guillermo) Franco, so the time has not been wasted.

"Tomorrow is a big opportunity because we can make a big step forward and can make a big impact on the psychological side and in terms of our position."

West Ham will have to do it without South African star Benni McCarthy, who is still missing with a knee injury. Herita Ilunga, Danny Gabbidon and Kieron Dyer also remain on the sidelines but Franco could return from a muscle complaint.