Gianfranco Zola has been named as the new manager of Watford after signing a two-year deal.

The news comes after Sean Dyche was sacked as coach of the Championship club earlier this week.

The Vicarage Road side were taken over by Italians the Pozzo family at the end of last month following a deal with owner Laurence Bassini.

"Everyone knows how Gianfranco Zola likes football to be played," Watford's technical director Gianluca Nani told the club's official website.

"I think Watford's fans can expect an exciting and attacking style from his team. Gianfranco represents this project perfectly."

Zola, who enjoyed a successful playing career with the likes of Napoli, Parma and Chelsea, parted company with West Ham United in June 2010 after two years in charge at Upton Park.