Rossi receives ban after violent outburst

Former Fiorentina coach Delio Rossi has been banned for three months by the Italian football league after he attacked midfielder Adem Ljajic during yesterday's 2-2 draw against Novara.

The 51-year-old struck Ljajic in the dugout after the player's apparent dissent at being substituted just 32 minutes into the match.

A statement from the Lega Serie A read: "The TV images have shown a thoughtless conduct, a violent and unpredictable one, and the serioussness of it cannot be lessened by the emotional tension generated by the delicate situation of the team."

Fiorentina dimissed Rossi hours after the incident and have appointed team manager Vincenzo Guerini as their coach until the end of the season.