Zola ready to parade General Franco as Hammers prepare for Bellamy reunion

26 September 2009 12:49
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola believes new striker Guillermo Franco could take the pressure off Carlton Cole. Zola could hand Franco his debut on Monday night in the Premier League clash against Manchester City at Eastlands. The 32-year-old Mexican, who has scored six goals in 19 international appearances, joined West Ham after his contract with Villarreal expired. Zola insists he could form a formidable partnership with Cole. 'It would be fantastic if Franco could start on Monday,' said Zola. 'He is going to be very important for us. 'He has all the experience and he's got presence on the pitch and I'm really impressed with him. He's going to be a very good signing for us.' Zola is looking forward to pitting his managerial wits against former Chelsea team-mate and current City boss Mark Hughes, even if Hughes has splashed more than £100million in the last transfer window.

Source: Daily_Mail