Genoa players have issued a formal statement thanking sacked coach Gian Piero Gasperini for his efforts.

Gasperini was shown the door this week after four years with Genoa.

"All the team salutes and thanks Gasperini again for the result obtained and the time spent together," read the statement.

"We shared many joys and few difficult moments. We give a heartfelt thanks for the promotion to Serie A, the consolidation at a high level, the return in Europe after 17 years, the satisfaction that makes part of your history and our history.

"Moreover we welcome the new Coach Davide Ballardini and his collaborators, and we put ourselves at their disposition."