S.S. Lazio have appointed Vladimir Petković as their new coach on a two-year contract.

The 48-year-old replaces Edoardo Reja, who left after leading Lazio to fourth place and a UEFA Europa League play-off berth. The Sarajevo-born Petković ended last season with FC Sion and his 15-year coaching career has been spent mostly in Switzerland, where he ended his playing days, but he also recently had a short spell at Samsunspor in Turkey.

"We can and we must have important objectives," said Petković. "This is a big step forward in my career. Some people say I'm a tough coach but I consider myself very flexible. The squad is the most important thing for me. Principles are more important than playing systems and my Lazio should always play to dominate any opponents."