Monday 17 December 2012 16:14, UK
Sampdoria have sacked head coach Ciro Ferrara and replaced him with ex-Fiorentina boss Delio Rossi.
Ferrara's dismissal comes after bottom side Siena parted company with Serse Cosmi last night. A former Juventus defender and manager, Ferrara guided newly-promoted Samp to three straight victories at the start of the current season, but came under intense scrutiny when the Ligurians lost seven straight games to slip quickly down the league standings. The 45-year-old bought himself some more time with victory in the Genoa derby, followed by a 1-0 win over Bologna, but a run of three games without a win has persuaded Samp's management to make the change. Rossi made his name in Italy during a four-year spell as Lazio manager, guiding the Biancocelesti to a third-placed finish in 2007 and Coppa Italia glory in 2009. An inconsistent stint in charge of Palermo was followed by a brief, dramatic tenure at Fiorentina. The 52-year-old was sacked in May for attempting to punch Viola midfielder Adem Ljajic when he reacted sarcastically to being substituted. Sampdoria sit 13th in the current standings and welcome Rossi's former club Lazio to the Stadio Luigi Ferraris on Saturday. Don't miss any live and exclusive football coverage this festive season. Click here to visit Sky Sports' Festive Calendar
