Milan, Nov 20 (IANS): Sampdoria confirmed Wednesday that they have appointed Sinisa Mihajlovic as their new head coach.

Mihajlovic, 44, quit his post with the Serbian national team before joining Sampdoria, where he spent four years as a player, reports Xinhua.

Sampdoria also confirmed through their official website that Mihajlovic will be joined by backroom staff Nenad Sakic, Emilio De Leo and Antonio Bovenzi.

His former Sampdoria teammate David Balleri has backed him to provide the "jolt" necessary as head coach at Marassi.

"If Sampdoria have made such a decision it is because they are convinced of the coach that they have chosen," Balleri said.

"Mihajlovic has demonstrated his value in Catania, Florence and with Serbia and is experienced and capable and can provide the boost that they need," he said.

"I was with him for three years and he showed great personality. For me, he is the right person at the right time, because Sampdoria is not going through a good moment, they are unrecognisable from last year and need a jolt," he said.