Alberto Malesani has been dismissed by Empoli.

Malesani has been replaced by Gigi Cagni, who returns to Empoli after being forced out earlier season.

"Empoli would like to announce that Malesani and his assistant Ezio Sella have been relieved of their duties," a statement on the club's website reads.

"The President wants to thank Malesani and Sella for the work they have done and wish them the greatest success.

"The job has been handed back to Cagni and his second in command Fabrizio Lorieri. Cagni will take training this afternoon."