Palermo have made their ninth managerial change of the season as they battle to avoid relegation from Serie A.

The club have reappointed Davide Ballardini as head coach just three months after he was sacked following a two-month stint at the helm.

Ballardini takes over after Walter Novellino was sacked following a return of one point from four games that leaves the side in the relegation zone on goal difference.

The decision of president Maurizio Zamparini to rehire Ballardini marks the second time he has reappointed a coach this season, with Giuseppe Iachini also taking control twice.

Giovanni Bosi endured the shortest reign of Palermo's seven managers this season, lasting just one game and five days in charge before being dismissed in February.