Carlo Ancelotti has admitted he would be interested in taking the West Ham job if he is shown the door by Chelsea this summer.
The respected Italian tactician secured the Double in his first season at the helm of the Stamford Bridge club but has been unable to claim any silverware this season.
That has led to widespread speculation that Sunday's trip to Everton will be his last in charge of the Blues with a meeting planned with the club's hierarchy once the Premier League season concludes.
West Ham are searching for a new manager after axing Avram Grant in the immediate aftermath of their relegation to the Championship, and when questioned over whether he would take the Upton Park job, he responded: "Why not?
"The atmosphere is fantastic also in the Championship. The stadia are full.
"If you watch a game in Italy in the second division, maybe there will be in the stadium 2,000 people. It's totally different.
"It doesn't matter if you can manage a top team or a smaller team. For me, it's important to work.
"I started to train in the (Italian) second division and I was happy in the second division."
The reasons behind Chelsea's disappointing season are well documented, yet the manager continues to praise his team.
"I have to say thanks to my players, to every one," Ancelotti said.
"Because, more or less, they did their best every time.
"I have to shake their hand, to say thanks."
