Fabio Capello wants Gianfranco Zola to be his assistant if he lands the England job.
Capello, currently the 2-1 favourite to take over from Steve McClaren, believes the former Chelsea idol would command the respect of England's under-performing stars.
Zola, 41 - recently voted Chelsea's most popular-ever player - has been working as an assistant coach with the Italy Under-21 team since retiring as a player.
He speaks fluent English, unlike Capello, and was popular with his fellow pros during his days in the Premier League.
Capello, 61, is also ready to sweep away a major stumbling block to him landing the England job.
The former Real Madrid and AC Milan boss is famed for being the highest paid manager in world football.
He has delivered success at all his clubs who have been happy to meet his wage demands.
The FA, who have just paid out £2.5million in compensation to axed boss Steve McClaren, will be keeping a tight grip on the pursestrings.
But Capello, who was sacked by Real after winning the Spanish League last season, is so keen on the England job he will accept a large pay cut.
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Jonathan Pearce
ALEC STEWART
THE MOLE