GIANFRANCO Zola has spoken of Chelsea's admiration for Callum Wilson ahead of tomorrow's Carabao Cup quarter-final with Cherries.

The 26-year-old England striker has been linked with a move to the Blues in January, although Cherries boss Eddie Howe is adamant Wilson's future lies at Vitality Stadium.

Chelsea assistant Zola said: "I'm sure there are a lot of players linked with us. Certainly, Callum Wilson is doing well for his club and is an interest not only for us but for many.

"He's strong, fast and sees the goal. I like because he's quick but also strong in the air, which is a very important quality.

"But I don't want to go too much into it. He's doing very well. I'm pleased for him. He has a lot of qualities that can take him a long way."

Chelsea's forward issues could be highlighted against Cherries, with Alvaro Morata (knee) out and Eden Hazard a doubt with a foot problem, meaning Olivier Giroud could be the only option up front.

Hazard, deployed as a false nine against Manchester City and Brighton, will undergo a fitness test.

The congested festive fixture list may mean Hazard is not risked but Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Cesc Fabregas and Gary Cahill could feature.

"Hazard is one of our best players, so to have him available is a big deal. But we don't want to compromise anything," said Zola.

Chelsea beat the Cherries at the same stage of the Carabao Cup 12 months ago, before losing 3-0 at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League little more than a month later.

Zola added: "We know Bournemouth is a dangerous team. They have gone far, even from last year. They keep improving.

"They have a very good manager and a good team. We know the game will have a lot of difficulties.

"With all respect we know our potential, we're getting better. We've had our bad spell but we're coming strong from that. We approach the game with a lot of confidence."

Meanwhile, Zola said Jose Mourinho would be keen to bounce back after being relieved of his duties as Manchester United boss.

Zola said: "It's never pleasant to see a coach being dismissed from a job. It's not pleasant for anyone.

"Especially it's not pleasant for someone like Jose who has won so much in the game and so much for this club.

"I am sad like many others. I want to wish him the best. I'm sure he will have more adventures.

"Nowadays getting the sack is part of the job, for everyone, from the small coaches to the big ones. Knowing the character and personality of Jose, I'm sure he'll want to bounce back."