Chelsea target former hero Gianfranco Zola for coaching role – report

Gianfranco Zola, West Ham (Getty Images)

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For all the latest reports and transfer rumours, visit our dedicated section here.Chelsea are interested in taking club legend Gianfranco Zola back to Stamford Bridge as a coach, according to Sky Sports News.

It is believed that the former West Ham United boss, who scored 80 goals in 312 games for the west London club, is being lined up for a coaching role and not as a replacement for current manager Carlo Ancelotti.

As yet, it is not believed that Zola has been contacted by the Blues, and a spokesman from the club would not comment on “speculation”.

Zola could follow Avram Grant back to the Blues, with the Israeli – current West Ham boss – being lined up as sporting director should Guus Hiddink turn down the role, as exclusively reported by Goal.com on Friday.

Concerning his own future at the club Ancelotti, whose side need something of a miracle to retain the Premier League title that they won so impressively last season, says that he hopes to stay at Chelsea, but also acknowledges his side could have done better this term.

“I hope to stay but it is not my decision,” said Ancelotti, following Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford to Manchester United.

He added: “I don’t know what the owner thinks about the season but in my opinion we could have done better.

“I am honest to say that Chelsea didn’t do its best this season but sometimes that can happen.

“Last season we had a fantastic season, this year it was a little bit different.

“In the last two years I have found a fantastic atmosphere in football, a fantastic country, and I respect the people.

“There is no violence in the stadium, the stadiums are full and I would like to stay here for these reasons.”