Former Leicester City coach Claudio Ranieri has been confirmed as the new Fulham boss following the sacking of Slavisa Jokanovic.

The Italian gaffer was appointed on a multi-year contract on Wednesday, as the Craven Cottage side look to pull themselves out of last place in the Premier League. The London-based club has five points from 12 matches.

In an interview on Fulham’s official website, Ranieri said: “The objective at Fulham should never be to merely survive in the Premier League.

“We must at all times be a difficult opponent and should expect to succeed.

“This Fulham squad has exceptional talent that is contrary to its position in the table.

“I know this team is very capable of better performances, which we will work on straight away as we prepare for Southampton at the Cottage.”

Ranieri’s first game in charge will be against Southampton on Saturday.