Watford boss Gianfranco Zola has revealed that he feels "flattered" to be linked with the vacant manager's job at Sunderland.

The Black Cats are without a head coach after sacking Paolo Di Canio on Sunday following their poor start to the Premier League season that has seen them take just one point from their opening five matches.

Zola has been placed among the bookmakers' favourites to take up the reins at the Stadium of Light, which has delighted the Italian.

"Of course I am flattered that I have been considered but I am really happy over here and like what I am doing," Zola told Sky Sports News.

"I think my growth as a manager has been massive and so I want to fulfil this task that I will be here."

Zola's Watford host Norwich City in the Capital One Cup on Tuesday.