Gianfranco Zola has urged England coach Fabio Capello to pick West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green for England's two vital World Cup qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Andorra.

Green, who was once so frustrated by his lack of opportunity at international level that he had his gloves inscribed 'England's No.6', is one of the front runners to replace the injured David James for England's final two matches of the season.

"If you ask me if Robert Green should be in then, as far as I am concerned, I would say 'yes'", said Zola. "He has given us so much security this year. He has a strong personality and had a few problems earlier this season but he has come through that and has been fantastic for West Ham."

Green, in fact, is one of the favourites for the Hammer of the Year award, to be presented on the Upton Park pitch after Sunday's Premier League finale against relegation-haunted Middlesbrough.

He won the title last year but other strong candidates are Matthew Upson and midfield player Scott Parker, who misses Sunday's match through injury.

James Tomkins is also out as he serves a one-match suspension and Lucas Neill, whose future at the club is also uncertain, is favourite to switch to the centre of defence with Jonathan Spector coming in at right back.