Gianfranco Zola backs Roberto Di Matteo to succeed

Gianfranco Zola has backed his former Chelsea teammate Roberto Di Matteo to be successful during his interim stint in charge at Stamford Bridge.

The 41-year-old was handed temporary charge of the team following the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas on Sunday afternoon.

Zola believes that Di Matteo's previous connections with the club will hold him in good stead.

"Roberto has got a big opportunity and I personally believe he's got the qualities to do a good job," Zola told Sky Sports News.

"I really hope that he's going to do well.

"He's a Chelsea boy as well, he's a Chelsea hero, and so he's well represented."

Di Matteo has previously managed MK Dons and West Bromwich Albion.