PRANDELLI STEPS DOWN

Former Italy boss Cesare Prandelli resigned as coach of Valencia on Friday, after a poor run that has seen the relegation-threatened team go through several managers in quick succession. "Cesare Prandelli has communicated to Valencia Club de Futbol his irrevocable decision to resign from his position as coach, as of Friday, December 30th," the struggling La Liga giants said in a statement. They added Salvador Gonzalez -- the former Spanish footballer known as "Voro" who works at the club -- would take charge of the first team, though it was unclear whether this was a temporary or permanent appointment. Valencia did not give a reason for Prandelli's departure, which comes after less than three months in the post.