Juventus boss Claudio Ranieri believes West Ham United's Gianfranco Zola is capable of taking charge of Chelsea.

"Gianfranco Zola is doing very well as a manager," Ranieri told the Sunday Times. "Could he be a good choice for Chelsea? Why not? He has a great history with the club and the fans would be very happy."

Ranieri admits that he doubted Zola's suitability for top-flight management.

"At the beginning I didn't think Gianfranco would do so well,' he says. 'I don't know exactly why I have been surprised by how well he has done, but I just didn't think he could do this for a big team. Yes, I thought he may be a good coach for younger players, like the under-21s, because he sets a great example. But I'm very happy for him, surprised and very happy."