Zola returns to Chelsea tomorrow for the first time since being appointed Hammers boss in September and could experience the wrath of spurned fans himself given the rivalry between the clubs.

The 42-year-old former Blues great hopes he will receive a warm reception at Stamford Bridge - and believes Lampard deserves the same.

England midfielder Lampard left Upton Park seven years ago and has come under heavy fire from Hammers supporters ever since.

"It would be a good time to end this abuse," said Zola.

"Frank has gone his own way and people should be pleased with what he's doing, not only for Chelsea but also for his country.

"He has decided to go somewhere else and people need to accept it. We talk sometimes and he always says how great West Ham is.

"When he knew I was going to come here he said I was coming to a great club with a great atmosphere and a wonderful place to start my career.

"That's the opinion he has of the club and people need to realise that he has moved to a bigger team."

Lampard was just one of the players to role off a Upton Park production line that also produced Joe Cole, Michael Carrick and Rio Ferdinand.

West Ham were powerless to prevent them joining bigger clubs and all four played in last season's Champions League final between Manchester United and Chelsea.

One of Zola's tasks is to begin unearthing the next generation of Lampards and the popular Italian supports the plan.

"When I came here the programme was to develop the young players that we had and keep them to help get to the point where we could compete with bigger clubs," he said.

"There are a lot of things going on and I've told the plan hasn't changed.

"It would be fantastic if we could be challenging the top four and our plan could work, that would be great for the club.

"If the plan has changed then the club will have to speak to me and tell me they will need to change their strategy.

"But I spoke to the club and they say they don't want to change the plan.

"I came over here because I like the project and that got my interest, not because I want to become the manager of Chelsea, Barcelona or Real Madrid.

"If after one year it hasn't worked then I will be the first person to put my hand up and say so.

"I will take my responsibilities and not turn my back but we need some time."