Italy unveil Ventura

Giampiero Ventura was officially unveiled as Italy's new manager on a two-year contract on Tuesday designed to make sure the Azzurri qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Ventura replaces Antonio Conte, who led Italy to the quarter-finals of Euro 2016 before taking over at Premier League giants Chelsea, and is now tasked with steering Italy through a qualifying Group G that notably includes Spain.

A respected tactician, the 68-year-old Ventura has coached a number of clubs in Italy's top flight and comes to the post following a five-year spell with Torino.

His first game in charge of Italy will be a friendly against beaten Euro 2016 finalists France in Bari on September 1.

After admitting his "pride" at being appointed, Ventura was quick to pay tribute to his 46-year-old predecessor.

"I'm absolutely delighted to be here, but more than anything proud to have been chosen to lead one of the world's leading national football teams," Ventura told media.