However, with one skilful touch Fuller turned Manuel Da Costa, leaving the Portuguese defender on his back, and as Scott Parker and Matthew Upson arrived late on the scene with weak tackles the Jamaica striker calmly drilled the ball home.

BBC: West Ham 0-1 Stoke City

Nonetheless, reports continue to suggest that Zola could be forced to sell his best players in January, including Rob Green, Matthew Upson, Scott Parker and Carlton Cole.

BBC: West Ham's shareholders in no hurry to sell club

Following the controversial Hammers equaliser, referee Mike Jones awarded Stoke what seemed like a soft penalty after winger Matthew Etherington went down when challenged by Scott Parker and James Tomkins.

BBC: Tony Pulis relieved after Stoke victory over West Ham

The Hammers' day started badly before they had even kicked a ball, with news that key midfielder Scott Parker had failed a fitness test, along with captain Matthew Upson.

BBC: West Ham 1-1 Blackburn