Italy forward Vincenzo Iaquinta has signed a contract extension with Juventus which will keep him in Turin until summer 2013.

The 29-year-old took his tally for the season to 12 yesterday with a brace as the Old Lady put aside their managerial concerns to finish their campaign on a high with a 2-0 win over Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico.

"It gives me great pride to have extended my contract with Juventus," he said, after committing himself to the club for the next four years.

"This means that I have done well," said Iaquinta. "Thanks to the club directors who showed faith in me and the fans who always supported and thus considered me an important player."

Uncertainty has surrounded the club in the wake of Claudio Ranieri's sacking, with temporary coach Ciro Ferrara among the candidates to guide the Turin giants next season after presiding over wins in his two games at the helm. Under Ferrara, Juve defeated Siena 3-0 before beating Lazio to pip AC Milan in the race to finish second in Serie A.

Thanks to the club directors who showed faith in me and the fans who always supported and thus considered me an important player.
Vincenzo Iaquinta

President Giovanni Cobolli Gigli is open-minded over the appointment, but is likely to turn to an Italian.

"We will try to have an Italian coach, a young head, with the ability to fire up the team," he said.

"[Managing director Jean-Claude] Blanc is preparing a list of various candidates with the evaluation of their characteristics. We will look and I think that at the weekend or early next week we will come to a conclusion."