Former West Ham United striker Carlton Cole has heaped praise on former loanee David di Michele, drawing comparisons between the Italian forward and club icons Gianfranco Zola and Paolo di Canio.

Reflecting on their time together, Cole described Di Michele as “Zola-esque,” spotlighting his blend of technical flair and team-first mentality during the Italian’s 2008/09 stint in East London.

Di Michele’s Spell at West Ham

David di Michele arrived at Upton Park on loan from Torino for the 2008/09 season, a move that coincided with Zola’s appointment as boss. Though his stats only show four goals and four assists across 30 league appearances, Di Michele had his moments.

His debut was unforgettable, bagging two goals, including a cheeky chip, in a 3-1 victory over Newcastle: a fitting way to announce himself to the Hammers faithful.

But while there were flashes of brilliance, consistency proved elusive. By the end of the season, Di Michele returned to Torino, leaving behind mixed memories. Still, for some fans, he occupies a unique place in the club’s history: a player whose style, even if fleeting, made him something of a cult figure.

Cole on Di Michele’s Selflessness

In a conversation with Wayne Bridge and Joe Cole, Carlton revealed what set Di Michele apart.

“He was the only player who came up to me and said, ‘Coley, I’m going to play for you. I want you to score.’”

It was that unselfish outlook, along with his creativity and sharp movement, that left a mark on Cole. The comparisons to Zola and Di Canio, two of the most revered Italian attackers ever to grace the Premier League, weren’t made lightly. For Cole, Di Michele was a player who perhaps didn’t get the credit he deserved.

Grealish at West Ham? Carlton’s Vision

Switching from the past to the present, Cole also shared a bold take on Manchester City’s Jack Grealish. He reckons the England international’s flair and inventiveness would make him a natural fit for West Ham if he ever decided to pack up his bags at the Etihad.

Inviting the playmaker to consider the move, Cole reportedly said, “Come to West Ham, mate!” It’s a cheeky suggestion, but one that hints at a broader vision of the kind of player the Irons could thrive on: creative, expressive, and with a touch of star power.

For fans, Cole’s comments are as much about nostalgia as they are a reminder of what players like Di Michele brought to the club.

While Jack Grealish swapping Manchester for East London might remain firmly in the realm of fantasy, it’s the type of ambition West Ham supporters would love to see matched on the pitch.