WEST HAM boss Gianfranco Zola could hand new striker Guillermo Franco his debut in tonight's Carling Cup third round tie against Bolton Wanderers.

The Mexico international joined the Hammers as a free agent last week after his deal with Spanish side Villarreal ran out at the end of last season. While he wasn't included in the squad to face Liverpool at the weekend, he could get his chance to shine at the Reebok.

The 32-year-old forward has scored four goals in his last six international appearances and Zola is confident he has found the right man to compliment the likes of Carlton Cole, Zavon Hines and Alessandro Diamanti in attack.

Zola said: "He is a main striker, he is very good at holding the ball and very good with his feet.

"He likes to play off the other strikers so he can make a difference for us."

West Ham dispatched Millwall 3-1 after extra-time in the last round. Kick-off tonight is at 7.45pm.