Zola, speaking in Gazzetto Dello Sport, said: "'Last year I had to operate as a reserve again and only started 19 out of 35 games.
"It was always Hasselbaink and Gudjohnsen...I have to admit I thought about quitting...
"However I didn't want to end things with a season like that - one which was certainly not the peak of my time in England.
"I told myself that the only way to get back as a regular starter was to show the coach that I was at the top and I have never given up."
Zola has already surpassed his goal total of last season in the opening five games of this season! And he is showing no signs of letting up, and his name is now the first on the teamsheet this season, as Jimmy and Eidur have struggled for goals so far.
Franco went on to add, "I worked throughout the summer - I never stopped, not even on holiday. I started scoring again in the pre-season friendly games with 10 goals in seven games and the run has continued. I hope it carries on.
"I did two to three hours a day of individual training throughout the holidays...it was a new programme for me and has given me excellent results.
"Obviously at my age I don't need to wear myself out - it is quality work which is very useful,' said Zola, who added that he continues to put in extra training sessions on his own.
"Chelsea train two hours a day. I put in another two hours for myself."
Zola continues to turn back the years in a bid to make his last season in football a memorable one and a few more wins for Chelsea will see us right up there with the big boys...