Gianfranco Zola's looking to Guillermo Franco for the goals to lift West Ham

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Mexican forward Franco, 32, moved to Upton Park last week and Zola is hoping he can prove himself as a foil for main striker Carlton Cole.

The campaign has begun in frustrating fashion for Zola. After five games they sit 16th in the Premier League, averaging one goal per-game.

Franco was not included in the squad against Liverpool on Saturday as he was not deemed fit enough, and Zola admits the striker is still some way from peak condition.

"Obviously, he only arrived the other day, but this could give us a good chance to assess him and have an idea what he can give to us," said the West Ham manager.

"He's a main striker and is very good at holding the ball. He also likes to play off others so he's a player who could make a difference for us."

Franco says he is delighted to have made the move to England even though it is late in his career.

"I can see that English football and, especially West Ham, has a lot of passion. I am looking forward to playing in front of the crowd here," he said.