Gianfranco Zola: 'I have good relationship with Roman Abramovich'

Watford manager Gianfranco Zola has revealed that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has previously shown an interest in bringing him back to Stamford Bridge.

Zola left Chelsea at the same time as the arrival of the Russian billionaire in 2003, but the former West Ham United boss has admitted that there is a "high respect" between the two.

The 46-year-old told the Daily Star: "There has always been an interest from them.

"We didn't work it out, but we have a high respect and appreciation for each other."

Zola has been touted as a possible replacement for Chelsea manager Rafael Benitez.