Source: SKY_Sports
Zola lauds Prem standard
The domination of English sides in Europe this season has come as no surprise to Gianfranco Zola.[LNB] The West Ham boss believes the quality within the Premier League has been on the rise for some time, with it becoming inevitable that the division would eventually rule supreme in continental competition.[LNB]Now, with Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea, all chasing UEFA Champions League glory and Manchester City in the hunt for the Uefa Cup crown, it appears that time has arrived.[LNB]Zola certainly thinks so and admits he is delighted to be plying his trade in world football's strongest league.[LNB]"It is a great moment for English football right now," said the Italian coach.[LNB]"In this country you can see that the top teams are producing results, quality football and big performances - not only at home but abroad and internationally.[LNB]"The football played in this country is the most competitive in Europe so it's not a surprise to me that the English sides went through against the Italians.[LNB]"They prepare the teams and the player to a higher level and that is why they are cruising in Europe, not just against the Italian teams but the Spanish also."[LNB]TargetWhile being full of admiration for the achievements of Liverpool and co this season, Zola is hoping to one day be competing alongside them in European football's premier club competition.[LNB]"Of course I hope one day to be there, competing with them in the Champions League," he added.[LNB]"We will see though, it depends how well I work, how well I do my job and how well the team does their job but that is one of the targets we have.[LNB]"It might be possible that seventh spot is enough for Europe this season and that would be a great thing for this club. Not just for the club to be in Europe, but for the players to play games internationally makes them better.[LNB]"I played many times as a player in European competition and I know how it can make a player better to play those kind of games."[LNB]
