Chelsea have confirmed Gianfranco Zola is returning to the club as Maurizio Sarri's assistant.

Sarri himself sought out Zola to be his assistant and the 52-year-old, whose managerial CV includes time with the Italy under-21s, West Ham and Watford, is eager to aid the new manager in whatever way he requires.

“For me it is an amazing thing," Zola said. “I am very willing to work hard because it is going to be a difficult challenge but I am pleased to be here, to work hard with Maurizio to be successful.

“It would be great to be successful with Maurizio and for the club and I will give my best, as I did in the past as a player, so I will give my best in my new position.

“I am very much looking forward to the challenge in general. I would love us to start well and we are all very excited to start this new adventure."