ITALY COACH LIPPI QUITS
By Mirror.co.uk
MARCELLO Lippi today resigned as coach of world champions Italy.
The former Juventus boss stepped down just three days after leading the Azzurri to their fourth World Cup triumph.
There had been widespread backing for Lippi to stay after his side beat France 5-3 on penalties after the game had finished 1-1 following extra-time.
Lippi, 58, replaced Giovanni Trapattoni as Italy coach in July 2004, signing a two-year contract.
"After the conclusion of an extraordinary professional and human experience during my time guiding this group of players, I believe my role as coach of the national team is over," Lippi said in a statement on the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) website.
"I have therefore announced to the FIGC my wish to leave the post as national coach when the contract expires.
"I would like to thank the FIGC for the trust they have given me in the last two years I have worked for them."
