Gianfranco Zola: today’s pain is tomorrow’s gain

Upon his appointment as Birmingham City manager in December, Gianfranco Zola conceded his uncertainty about his future should he fail to obtain a play-off place come May.

The remit for his job was nebulous given the lack of communication from the clubs new owners, Trillion Trophy Asia. Seemingly, an emphasis was placed on a captivating brand of football, something that comes as naturally as breathing to a man like Zola who was enchanting back in his own playing days.

Ask a Watford supporter or a West Ham supporter to contemplate on their respective club’s time under Zola’s stewardship and the widely held admission is that Zola’s teams are always entertaining.

It’s only fair to acknowledge that Zola’s time at St. Andrews is in the embryotic stage. After inheriting a squad of limited capability, to modify the footballing habits that have been embedded into their personal culture for such a long period of time was never going to be facile. And so it is proving. Nonetheless, that Blues have progressed over the last month is indisputable.

However, that sought after place in the end of season lottery is becoming increasingly distant. Yet while the actual specification of Zola’s job remains unspoken, we can only speculate as to what will happen in the summer as Birmingham City prepare for another season in England’s second tier.

Dismissing Gary Rowett was a bold call considering Blues’ position in the league at that time. So one would assume that Zola will receive full backing, and resources, to embark on his first full season in charge – that is when the real expectation will take a hold.