Cagliari have sacked coach Diego Lopez.

Lopez was axed after their defeat to AS Roma.

"The necessity to shake up the team in this final stage of the season to achieve the objective of safety made a change of management indispensable," read a club statement.

"This decision is very painful, as Lopez has proved himself as a professional and a man, and in the past as a symbol and captain of the squad.

"The club thanks the Coach for his work and wishes him all the best for his future endeavours."