Zola: Cole can be England star

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola believes Carlton Cole can replace Emile Heskey as Fabio Capello's battering ram.

The England coach has offered the Wigan striker an unexpected international renaissance by giving him the chance to lead the line for the Three Lions. But with Heskey nearing 31, Zola believes Cole may have the chance to stake a claim for his spot in the near future.

Zola said: "He is doing very well. He needs to get better with his finishing and score more goals but I have a lot of faith in him."

He added: "It is the most important thing in that position but everything else is ready.

"We are going to be helping him a lot to get better.

"He has got a chance in that position for England because he could be an international-class player."