Zola: he say yes

  • by Staff Writer
  • Wednesday, 10th September 2008

Gianfranco Zola has agreed to become West Ham United's 12th full-time manager.

The 42-year-old Italian gave the Hammers the nod last night despite last minute doubts relating to the reception he will receive from Hammers fans, some of whom have issues with the fact that Zola is revered by Chelsea supporters following his successful time there as a player in the late 1990s.

"I’m a bit concerned that there is a movement among some fans that is hostile about my appointment, he said last night. "I hope that by coming to London that can be clarified as West Ham is one of those opportunities that does not come around often."

Zola, who watched his Italian under-21 side draw 1-1 with Croatia in Zagreb last night, sending them through to the Euro finals, is due to fly into London later today to put pen to paper on the deal.

He is expected to be unveiled by the club tomorrow lunchtime, and will join the squad as they travel to the West Midlands on Saturday to take on West Bromwich Albion.

'Gigi' Casiraghi, Zola's joint manager with the under-21s is likely to remain in his post. Zola is set to attempt to lure Chelsea's Steve Clarke across the City to join him at the Boleyn as his number two.

"I'm not going to West Ham," Casiraghi said last night. "I don't know what will happen, but I know I want to be at the Euros with these lads, they deserve it."

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