Torino turn to Novellino
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Article summary
Torino FC have appointed Walter Novellino as their new coach on a two-year contract with the 54-year-old former UC Sampdoria boss replacing Gianni De Biasi.
Article body
Torino FC have appointed Walter Novellino as their new coach on a two-year contract.
'Prestigious'
The 54-year-old former UC Sampdoria coach replaces Gianni De Biasi who left the club last week despite helping Torino win their battle against relegation from Serie A. Novellino started his playing career in Torino's youth system before playing for AC Perugia, Ascoli Calcio 1898 and AC Milan. "I'm pleased to coach a club as prestigious as Torino, where I grew up as a player," he said. "I already have clear ideas for the future of the team."
Sampdoria success
As a coach, Novellino won promotion from Serie B with AC Venezia, SSC Napoli and Piacenza FC before repeating the feat with Sampdoria in 2003. In 2004/05 he led the Blucerchiati to fifth place and UEFA Cup qualification. Last season Sampdoria finished ninth and qualified for the UEFA Intertoto Cup. Torino were 17th, avoiding relegation by just one point.
