West Ham manager Alan Curbishley has expressed his disappointment at keeper Robert Green over his contract dispute with the club.

Speaking on television last month, the 28-year-old stopper claimed he felt undervalued as one of the lowest-paid first-team regulars at Upton Park, and called on the club to offer him an improved contract.

The Hammers turned down the request, instead telling Green his terms would not be discussed until next summer.

And boss Curbishley believes the England keeper should have kept his concerns inside the camp, rather than go public with them.

"I think it was unnecessary and perhaps a little bit naive in some respects," said Curbishley.

"We rate Greeny highly and nobody has been pushing him more with (England coach) Fabio Capello than me.

"I've said on numerous occasions that perhaps he should dye his hair white and he might be noticed a bit more.

"At Ipswich he made two great saves and they went unnoticed because that's what he does.

"He's definitely one we rate highly and it was not needed. Perhaps in the cold light of day, he will see that as well."

In future, Curbishley urged any players who wished to discuss their contracts to speak to chief executive Scott Duxbury.

"Ever since I've been at the club, all the transfer negotiations, fees and contracts have been done by first Eggert Magnusson and now Scott Duxbury," he added.

"He's the person to go and see - I just recommend."

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