Ciro Ferrara has credited his former Italy U21 players for helping him land the Sampdoria job.

The former Juventus coach was named Samp boss last month.

"If I am here today then I owe it to them, that is without exception and even to those players who I left at home," the Neapolitan stated from the club's Bardonecchia training base.

"There was a really strong spirit within the squad, a sensation that we were hard to beat on any ground where we played.

"It's disappointing that I had to leave the job half done, but I can't stop thanking those who helped me to be noticed - the Federation, Arrigo Sacchi and Maurizio Viscidi.

"I was contacted by other clubs over the last two years, but this was an opportunity which was too important to miss.

"Serie A is home to Sampdoria and we'll look to maintain our status with all of our strength."