Former Fiorentina coach Delio Rossi has been banned for three months by the Italian football league after he attacked midfielder Adem Ljajic during Wednesday’s 2-2 draw against Novara.

The 51-year-old struck Ljajic in the dugout after the player’s apparent dissent at being substituted just 32 minutes into the match.

A statement from the Lega Serie A read: “The TV images have shown a thoughtless conduct, a violent and unpredictable one, and the seriousness of it cannot be lessened by the emotional tension generated by the delicate situation of the team.”

Fiorentina dismissed Rossi hours after the incident and have appointed team manager Vincenzo Guerini as their coach until the end of the season.

The former Palermo boss, who replaced Sinisa Mihajlovic in November, endured a difficult spell with the Viola.

Fiorentina have won just three of their last 11 games and the point against Novara left the Tuscan side only six points clear of the relegation zone with two games left to play.

“I would have never expected such a reaction from him,” Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini said. “I know it’s a very difficult day for Rossi, especially when he watches the images on TV and sees what he did.

“He will be the first to understand that he made a mistake.”

Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani also spoke about the incident. He said: “Rossi’s reaction was exaggerated but the players need to show respect to their coaches.”

Fiorentina defender Cesare Natali admitted this incident could not have come at a worse possible time for the team, who have yet to guarantee Serie A safety.

“I am saddened for what has happened,” he said. “I feel sorry for the coach and for Ljajic, who I think could have avoided any reaction after being substituted.”

Fiorentina announced yesterday they have opened disciplinary proceedings against the 20-year-old Ljajic.