Gianfranco Zola apologised to West Ham fans for failing to wave to them during Saturday's victory over Newcastle United.

The Hammers new boss felt embarrassed after ignoring the calls of the Upton Park crowd as they revelled in their side's 3-1 trouncing of Newcastle.

"Zola, Zola Give us a wave" rang around the Boleyn Ground throughout the 90 minutes as the pint-sized Italian made a dream start to life.

He said: "I have to say sorry to the fans for not waving at them when they sang.

"I did not hear it because I was so focused and my brain was all crossed thinking about what I needed to do.

"This whole week I have been nervous because obviously it is a new challenge and you don't know how people are going to react.

"I must thank the fans for the way they gave me a great reception and next time I promise to wave!"