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West Ham moved nine points clear of the relegation zone last weekend following a 2-2 draw with Sunderland but the main talking point came from the tabloids.

Reports in the wake of the draw suggested Hammers boss Slaven Bilic had clashed with striker Diafra Sakho, who was furious at not being selected for the starting eleven at the Stadium of Light.

Sakho, who has recently returned from a lengthy injury, reportedly felt he was fit enough to play against the Black Cats and a major showdown occurred as a result.

However, speaking to the club’s official website, Slaven Bilic has denied that any rift has emerged between him and the striker.

“It was in the ‘papers that I had a row with Diaf, but no, there is no rift between us.”

“I called Diaf on the day we travelled to Sunderland and asked him what was happening because he got injured and all that.”

“He said ‘I am only frustrated because I have a small injury but I hope to be back for the game against Everton’ and we will see that. There was no argument whatsoever between us.

“I can say from my direct conversation with Diaf that it’s not the case and it’s not true what it said in the ‘papers.”