Former Fiorentina manager Delio Rossi has apologised for his violent actions that resulted in an immediate dismissal from the club this week.

The 51-year-old was sacked by the Serie A outfit following his side's 2-2 draw with Novara on Wednesday due to an incident with one of his own players.

The boss appeared to slap Adem Ljajic in the face after the forward sarcastically gave Rossi a thumbs up for substituting him during the match.

"My actions were deplorable, but I can't overlook lack of respect to me or to the team," said Rossi. "I cannot accept any compromise on certain aspects of my life.

"These are respect for my person, for my job, for the team I coach and for my family. These issues were involved. My reaction was ugly and deplorable and I'm sorry.

"I was told if I'd been clever I'd have waited until I got into the changing rooms rather than in front of the tv cameras, would that have been more manly? I don't think it would have been right. I made a mistake and I'm paying the price."

Fiorentina are currently six points away from relegation.