Ex-Italy boss Ventura promises to redeem himself with Chievo

MILAN: Former Italy manager Gian Piero Ventura said Thursday he was determined to redeem his tarnished reputation at Serie A strugglers Chievo after the disgrace of failing to lead the Azzurri to the World Cup.

“I have a tremendous desire to start all over again,” said the 70-year- old, who was fired after four-time winners Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 60 years.

“I know it’s a difficult challenge, but it gives me adrenaline. I’m experiencing this new beginning with the enthusiasm of a child,” continued Ventura, who oversaw his first training session after replacing sacked Lorenzo D’Anna.

“My biggest regret is not being able to achieve what I wanted. After a defeat it was no longer possible to carry on my work. Too bad, now I’m looking forward.”

Ventura has agreed a two-year deal with the club from Verona but has a formidable task on his hands. Chievo are bottom of Serie A with -1 points after being deducted three points last month for false accounting.

The veteran manager has a long coaching career at club level in Italy with teams including Napoli, Sampdoria, Udinese and Hellas Verona.

But he established his reputation during a five- year spell with Torino from 2011, leading the club back into Serie A and nurturing stars such as Ciro Immobile before his appointment as Italy coach in July 2016.