Irons co-chairman on the mend

Gold has returned home to continue his recovery from septicaemia and cholangitis - an infection of the common bile duct - which required hospital treatment. The Hammers say they have been inundated with e-mails and phone calls from supporters concerned about the 74-year-old, who plans to be back in the directors' box for the April 2 clash with United. He told his club's official website: "I do genuinely thank everybody that has shown concern. "It has been a difficult couple of weeks but I am over the worst. "I have got a bit to go but I hope to be back for the Manchester United match early next month." West Ham have won both their matches since it emerged Gold had been taken ill, maintaining their remarkable survival bid. "I have been inundated with an incredible amount of good wishes and it has made such a difference," Gold added. "What with winning two vitally important games and having people think of you like that, it really does give you a boost. "It is, of course, great that people care and it is very nice to receive such kind words."