Football news - Napoli confirm Carlo Ancelotti replacement as Gennaro Gattuso

Ancelotti had been in charge since the beginning of last season and had managed a win percentage of better than 50.

But Napoli currently lie seventh in Serie A, a position that were they to remain there until the end of the season would represent their worst league finish in a decade.

Gattuso said: "The aim is to recoup points and get back into the Champions League positions.

"We need to work hard, win back points and come through this tricky period."

Gattuso played under Ancelotti at Milan, the club where the 60-year-old remains a legend, and the new Napoli boss admitted he would take inspiration from his predecessor.

Gattuso added: "[Ancelotti] is like a father to me. He's always been close to me and supported me. He's won it all and I still have a lot to prove."

Napoli took the decision to end Ancelotti's reign late last night after a period of internal strike at the club, surprising timing having just qualified for the knockout stages of the Champions League.

A statement said: "SSC Napoli has taken the decision to part ways with first-team coach Carlo Ancelotti.

"The friendship and mutual respect between the club, President Aurelio De Laurentiis and Carlo Ancelotti remain intact."