West Ham United were undone against Birmingham City yesterday by former player Lee Bowyer.

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola admitted Bowyer's decisive contribution was a painful experience.

He said: "When Lee left in January, he was not playing very much. He was coming back from an injury, needed to play, and that was not possible with us.

"I know how capable he is. He's a player who can score goals. It is painful to say that. I have no doubts that he is a good player."