Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola could be in line for a return to English football.

Fabio Capello wants Zola as an assistant should he be appointed new England manager.

Capello, currently the 2-1 favourite to take over from Steve McClaren, believes the former Chelsea idol would command the respect of England's under-performing stars, says the Sunday Mirror.

Zola, 41 - recently voted Chelsea's most popular-ever player - has been working as an assistant coach with the Italy Under-21 team since retiring as a player.

He speaks fluent English, unlike Capello, and was popular with his fellow pros during his days in the Premier League.