West Ham owners back Sam Allardyce

West Ham co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan have issued an open letter to fans in support of boss Sam Allardyce.

The struggling Hammers lost 5-0 to Championship side Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup on Sunday.

The Upton Park club are second from bottom of the Premier League after just one win in 13 top-flight games.

"We know Sam has not lost his ambition or desire and is committed to making West Ham United a great Premier League club," read the letter.

Gold and Sullivan also revealed that West Ham are close to strengthening their squad in the January transfer window.

With record signing Andy Carroll yet to play for the club this season because of a foot injury, BBC Sport's Ben Smith reports Monaco's 6ft 8in striker Lacina Traore could join the club on loan if he gets a work permit.

The club are also believed to be working on deals for Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott and Roger Johnson of Wolves after failing to bring Everton's Johnny Heitinga to the club.

I wonder how many times have we heard that just before they are sacked

He hasn't got the support of the players

What chance do we have if even a Mod does not read all the post to see there is already a thread on Fat Sam :O

He' gotta be Irish XD