Zola has confidence in his own ability
Gianfranco Zola on Thursday night pledged to liberate West Ham's players by putting the smiles back on their faces.
Zola beamed his way through a press conference held to announce his appointment as Alan Curbishley's successor and proceeded to outline his footballing philosophy.
"Football is joy. The best part of the game comes when you are enjoying what you're doing," he said. "So my first target will be to make it as enjoyable as possible for the players."
He added: "Once they realise that I'm sure their performances will be better. The crowd will enjoy it more too.
"My philosophy is to play offensive football. I've always played that way because I trust it.
"It will be quicker for my philosophy to take effect than many people think.
"Once the players realise what I want from them and feel the freedom, it will happen quickly.
"But I haven't seen the players yet. I need to judge the situation with my eyes.
"I'm aware of the high expectations of West Ham fans. This is a challenge but I like challenges. I'm not afraid."
