Zarate, a summer signing from Velez Sarsfield, scored against Crystal Palace earlier this season but hasn't been seen on the pitch since the Hammers beat QPR at Upton Park at the start of October.
Now after over a month out, rumours have been suggesting that there is something more to Zarate's absence, especially considering that he's been in the news lately having switched his international allegiance from Argentina to Chile.
However, West Ham co-chairman [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] that there is nothing untoward over Zarate, and that the 27-year-old is simply out injured at the moment.
"Mauro is very much part of the first team squad but there’s no need to take chances on players when so many are fit and available," he said.
"We are in a very strong position at the moment and there is nothing suspicious about this at all. Mauro is a valued player and like many others, really having to challenge for his place in all circumstances," added Gold.
Now after over a month out, rumours have been suggesting that there is something more to Zarate's absence, especially considering that he's been in the news lately having switched his international allegiance from Argentina to Chile.
However, West Ham co-chairman [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] that there is nothing untoward over Zarate, and that the 27-year-old is simply out injured at the moment.
"Mauro is very much part of the first team squad but there’s no need to take chances on players when so many are fit and available," he said.
"We are in a very strong position at the moment and there is nothing suspicious about this at all. Mauro is a valued player and like many others, really having to challenge for his place in all circumstances," added Gold.