Palermo turn to Delio Rossi after Zenga dismissal

Palermo have named Delio Rossi as their new coach, just hours after parting company with Walter Zenga in the aftermath of their 1-1 draw against Catania.

• Zenga dismissed after Catania draw

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Delio Rossi during his time with Lazio

Rossi, who guided Lazio to the Coppa Italia in the 2008-09 campaign, has signed a contract with the Rosaneri until June 2011.

A statement from the club on Monday read: "US Palermo announces it has appointed Delio Rossi as the coach of the first team. The coach has signed a contract until June 30, 2011, with an option for the club to extend the contract for a further campaign. Rossi will be unveiled to the media tomorrow morning."

Rossi left Lazio in the summer after four seasons at the club and is cautiously optimistic he can turn around the flagging fortunes of Palermo.

After a bright start, the Sicilian side have slipped to 12th in the Serie A table with 17 points from 13 matches, but Rossi is relishing his new challenge.

"This is an important club with competent people and warm supporters,'' Rossi said. "I accepted this coaching position because here there is passion and enthusiasm. I will ask for everyone to help out.

"I will make mistakes but the smartest people are those that make the fewest mistakes. Above all, I hope I can meet expectations."

Palermo fans have been frustrated with their team's form, having not seen a league victory since October 25.

Rossi, who has signed contract until June 2011, has not made any promises but believes the team has the quality to finish in the top six.

"I still have to evaluate the squad,'' he said. "I think this team can have an important role but we will have to wait and see what that is. On the pitch will be where this is judged.

"Actions speak louder than words and we have to prove our worth on the pitch. But I am not selling promises. I am not an agent.''

Rossi will be aware that Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has made a lot of changes at the helm in recent years.

Since taking over in 2002, Zamparini has had 12 coaches at the club.

"I met him (Zamparini) yesterday and he seems a very enthusiastic man,'' said Rossi. "He seems in love with Palermo. But I don't worry about the rest. My only task is to work hard and improve the team.''

The Sicilian giants travel to Verona to meet Chievo on Sunday.