Glenn Denies Reports

Glenn Roeder is laughing off suggestions that Paolo Di Canio gave him a barrage of abuse when West Ham scored their second equalising goal against Spurs on Sunday.

And, though he is shocked that media coverage has suggested otherwise, he says: "Anyone trying to divide us will be disappointed - the spirit and togetherness of all the players is very good and we are all working very hard to get out of the situation we are in."

Reports have concentrated on the Italian coming over to the bench in the aftermath of the second goal when - as he has done on many occasions in the past to celebrate a goal - Paolo pointed to his boss.

What he said, however, has been open to interpretation, and Glenn says: "Paolo was not ranting and raving, or whatever people are trying to claim. He often comes over to the technical area to celebrate a goal - how often have our fans seen that last season?

"He often shares his pleasure after a goal with myself, the coaching staff, and the subs on the bench.

"It is absolute rubbish to suggest he was angry after the equaliser. That is so, so wrong - complete and utter nonsense."

Glenn did, though, explain to Paolo about his impending substitution and adds: "At 2-1 down we were going to bring Jermain on, then when we equalised my thoughts changed and I decided to bring Michael Carrick on so we had two banks of four and one up front, which meant Paolo staying on a little longer.

"There were no problems in me explaining things to him then, and there were no problems when he did come off - and don't forget he has only played three games now in four months.

"Paolo's passion typifies the sprit we have - it is a very tight group of determined players.

"We are not happy to be in the position we are - quite the reverse.

"But we are doing everything we can to change it and it is important that our supporters know about the unity that exists amongst our players despite that position."