AS Roma fired coach Zdenek Zeman on Monday following a poor run since Serie A’s Christmas break that has seen the Giallorossi take just two points from a possible 15. Zeman’s second spell in charge of the Italian giant ended after Sunday’s 4-2 loss at home to Cagliari. Some Roma fans did not approve of the board’s decision and were outspoken in their protesting.

“I do not feel abandoned by the players and the team never played against me," Zeman told reporters. “I am not happy about being sacked, that's for sure – but I've spoken with [captain Francesco] Totti and the board. It's nice to see the affection from the fans – I didn't expect it."

Assistant coach Aurelio Andreazzoli will take over as temporary manager until a new coach is appointed. Former French national team coach Laurent Blanc and former Siena coach Marco Giampaolo have been linked with the now vacant post. Roma is currently eighth in Serie A, nine points behind Lazio, which occupies the third and final UEFA Champions League spot.