Zola's reign starts with win

Gianfranco Zola’s reign as West Ham manager got off to the perfect start as his fellow Italian David di Michele hit a brace to help see off crisis-club Newcastle 3-1 at Upton Park.

The former Chelsea midfielder officially took up his duties on Monday – and the Hammers responded to record a third home successive win.

Di Michele, on a season loan from Torino, set them on their way with a deflected effort after just eight minutes and then added another before half-time.