Sampdoria coach Walter Novellino has agreed to extend his contract with the Serie A club until 2007.

“I want to thank the people who have once again believed in me,” said Novellino who has presided over his team’s return to Serie A.

“It’s a great reward for my work,” he added.

The 50-year-old joined Sampdoria in 2002 when the club were in Serie B and immediately led them to promotion.