Zola picks Del Piero successor

Former Chelsea star Gianfranco Zola believes Sebastian Giovinco is the natural heir to Juventus favourite Alessandro Del Piero.

Zola worked with Giovinco during his stint as assistant coach of Italy’s Under-21 side, and feels the 25-year-old forward has since made huge steps forward.

“Giovinco is Del Piero’s heir in my opinion,” Zola was quoted as saying by Tuttosport.

“I thought I would find myself struggling for a classic finisher when he was with U-21s. He’s equipped with class and creativity.”

“He has grown a lot since then. He no longer only creates chances, but also knows how to find the net. He has become an excellent second striker.”

Giovinco is a product of the Juventus youth academy, but struggled to secure regular first-team football with the Turin giants.

He opted to join Parma on a one-year loan deal in August 2010, and the Stadio Ennio Tardini side acquired 50 percent of the player’s contract at the end of last season.

Giovinco has scored nine league goals for Parma so far in 2011/12.