The former Birmingham owners rescued the Hammers from the brink of financial meltdown when they took control of the club in a £50million deal in January.

The east London club sit just three points above the relegation zone ahead of this afternoon's Barclays Premier League clash with Arsenal.

Zola admits he meets Gold and Sullivan on a regular basis at the club's training ground and on match days, but he insists their presence has never compromised his role as manager.

When asked whether the duo had ever given him any suggestions about players or tactics, the Italian replied: "No, never. They never have done that.

"They like to know, they like me to explain what we are trying to do. I like that. They have been very good.

"One of the owners comes to see the preparation (on match days). I think that's normal. There's nothing wrong with that.

"I have no problem with that. It's not an issue. I like it when they come here and see what we are doing, so they can keep an eye on what we do."

Zola admits his side face a crucial period with fixtures at Wolves and Stoke coming up next week after today's match against a Gunners side who will go top of the league if they win.

Tough games against Liverpool, Manchester City and Everton await Zola's side before the end of the season but he insists he is not worried about being sacked.

"I don't spend much time worrying about my future," said Zola.

"My future depends on what I can give. My focus is on making sure I give 100% focus and then que sera, sera.

"I can try hard and try to do a good job, and maybe the situation is not correct and things don't go very well. In that case, I cannot do anything. But it doesn't stop me working hard and being honest for the people I'm working for."

Striker Carlton Cole is likely to return to Zola's starting line-up after being rested last week but the Italian will have to do without Scott Parker, who has picked up a leg injury.

Zola is hopeful of a similar performance to the one that secured West Ham a 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium last year.

"Obviously on paper before the game Arsenal are flying now," said Zola.

"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 I always hope."