New Lecce coach Luca Gotti is happy taking charge.

Gotti steps up after the sacking of Roberto D'Aversa for headbutting Verona striker Thomas Henry.

Former Udinese coach Gotti said: "I wish to just take 30 seconds regarding D'Aversa. I know him well, he was my player many years ago.

“Along with having a strong personality, he also has a brain that works. So what happened on Sunday was a moment of frustration, but I can assure you he has a brain and it works very well."

He also said: “It is fascinating and exciting from the outside. Obviously, when you are inside it, you see things differently and the tension weighs on your shoulders.

“You have to realise all 10 games are very important, that is the beauty of this sport."

He added: “I must say that 2023 was a difficult year for me, I had two invasive operations. One was in July, which meant I could not accept the offers I had received. After eight months on crutches, I am back to normal now."