A HOST of leading figures in Italian football have backed West Ham's new technical director Gianluca Nani to be a hit at Upton Park.

AC Milan midfielder Andrea Pirlo, Bayern Munich striker Luca Toni - both of whom Nani nurtured at Brescia - and Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola have all lavished praise on the man who will oversee the Hammers' international scouting network from June 1.

Nani, who was unveiled by the Irons last month, has spent the last nine years as Brescia's director of football, bringing Fifa world player of the year Roberto Baggio to the club.

And the 45-year-old's work has received endorsements from his former charges.

Toni and Pirlo, who won the World Cup with Italy in 2006, were both impressed by Nani's methods.

"I would like to send my best wishes to Gianluca, who I had the good fortune of knowing during my time at Brescia, on his new professional experience which I am sure he will approach with the enthusiasm and professionalism that has always been his trademark," said Toni, who played alongside Baggio at Brescia.

"Good luck to the great Gianluca Nani for his adventure at West Ham United," added Pirlo, who began his career at Brescia before returning for a loan spell under Nani in 2001.

"I wish him great satisfaction which, considering his vast experience, won't be long in coming."

Zola added his backing too, saying: "I know that Gianluca has done a fantastic job at Brescia.

"I am sure he will do the same with West Ham United."

Finally, Italian Football Association technical director Paolo Piani has also been impressed by Nani's level of skill.

"Gianluca has been one of the best students attending our football courses in Coverciano and nowadays he's actually one of the more appreciated teachers to the courses themselves," said Piani.

"He did very well obtaining successful results with Brescia.

"He's a real talent finder. He discovered and launched many smart football players."

As well as Toni and Pirlo, Nani has also received praise in recent years for unearthing a wealth of talent from across the globe including Ghanaian international Stephen Appiah, Slovkian midfielder Marek Hamsik and Costa Rican defender Gilberto Martinez.

Brescia are currently fifth in Serie B, seven points behind leaders Chievo Verona with seven matches remaining.