Ranieri sacked as Juventus attempt to halt slide

SACKING Claudio Ranieri was the “last resort” in a bid to halt Juventus’ slide down the Serie A table, according to general manager Jean Claude Blanc.

The former Chelsea manager was dismissed after just under two years in charge of Italy’s record champions yesterday due to a dip in form which has jeopardised their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League next season.

Ciro Ferrara has been placed in charge for the final two games of the season in which Blanc hopes a positive reaction will be evident.