Zola happy to make mistakes

Hammers boss looking to learn from blunders

Last updated: 20th November 2008

Gianfranco Zola West Ham manager

Zola: Learning from mistakes

I'm not afraid of making mistakes. I became a better player by missing penalties.

Zola
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West Ham's inexperienced manager Gianfranco Zola believes the only way he will learn about the job is by making mistakes.

The Italian legend was the surprise choice to replace Alan Curbishley at Upton Park in September and it has been a rollercoaster ride ever since.

After a bright start with the former Chelsea striker at the helm, West Ham have now found themselves creeping towards the wrong end of the table after going seven matches without a win.

Zola, who missed a crucial penalty in Euro 96, says he learned more by making mistakes as a player than looking towards the positives.

The 42-year-old knows he has taken a risk by accepting the Hammers job, but he believes if he does succeed then he will be fondly remembered.

Big risk

"I know that this is a big risk. I am putting myself on the line," Zola admitted.

"All the goodness I have done is on the line and I'm going away from Chelsea to another Premier League club, but I like the challenge.

"The bigger the job the more responsibility and attention you get, so every mistake is in the spotlight.

"I'm not afraid of making mistakes. I became a better player by missing penalties and crying after that, but it's all part of the process of becoming better.

"I know that there may be a risk but can you imagine the reception I'm going to get here from the club? It's going to be fantastic. That's what I am thinking about."