Watford manager Gianfranco Zola has revealed that he turned down offers from Italy in order to take over at Watford in the summer.

Zola began his coaching career with Italy Under-21s before managing West Ham United and Watford, and the former Chelsea attacker has admitted that he sees his future in English football.

The 46-year-old told the Daily Star: "I know I am Italian and I love Italy, and my own place, Sardinia, very much.

"But one of my sons was born here and speaks English with an English accent. We feel very comfortable here and enjoy having our life here. Working-wise, it is fantastic too. I've had the possibility this year and last year to go and coach an Italian team.

"This place has always got the preference and it was in front of the others. That is why I am here."

Zola has guided Watford to second place in the Championship table this season.

Written by
Darren Plant