SOCCER: Gianfranco Zola has reassured West Ham's players his lack of experience will not prevent him from being a success at Upton Park.

Zola was idolised during a seven-year spell at Chelsea that saw him score 80 goals in 312 matches and is remembered fondly throughout the Premier League.

The 42-year-old's managerial CV is far less authoritative, however, and features a solitary spell with Italy's Under-21s, the post he left for West Ham.

But Zola insists his approach to coaching at Upton Park will be shaped by his exploits during two decades in the game.

"I know I am not the most experienced manager around but I have ideas - I have been in football for 20 years," he said.

"I know what we're talking about and I will certainly give something to this club - whether it is enough or not we will see.

"But I have a lot of knowledge of the game and the players will help me with this."

Zola's appointment on a three-year contract has excited Hammers fans mindful of his attacking genius as a player.

But the Upton Park board, who have operated a summer-long cost-cutting drive, have been accused of taking the cheap option in overlooking the more established names they interviewed.

"I agree the lack of experience is a question mark and there were people on the shortlist who had more experience," said chief executive Scott Duxbury.

"But meeting him and talking to him at length about his football philosophy, it became clear there was no other choice.

"It wasn't about a taking a cheap option, he was the perfect option. His interview was so impressive that it was clear who we needed."

Zola officially takes over on Monday, leaving caretaker manager Kevin Keen to complete preparations for tomorrow's trip to West Brom.

A winning start against Newcastle a week on Saturday will help convince Hammers fans their board have chosen wisely, as will the attacking game he has promised to play.

"Football is joy. The best part of the game comes when you are enjoying what you're doing," said Zola.

"So my first target will be to make it as enjoyable as possible for the players.

"Once they realise that I'm sure their performances will be better. The crowd will enjoy it more too.

"My philosophy is to play offensive football. I've always played that way because I trust it."

-PA