Ranieri won't rule out Italy job

Claudio Ranieri says he would consider filling the vacant managerial position with Italy.

The current Nantes gaffer's comments are sure to spark speculation linking him with the Azzurri gig after Gian piero Ventura was sacked earlier in the week on the heels of a catastrophic World Cup qualifying loss to Sweden.

"Would I be the Italy coach? I would have to think about it, but it doesn't only depend on me, as I have a contract with Nantes and a president who I would have to talk to," Ranieri told Sky Sports Italia.

After leading Leicester City to a shock Premier League title, Ranieri put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the Canaries in the summer, and despite a 4-1 weekend loss to capital city behemoth Paris Saint-Germain, Nantes has been good this season. Through 13 matches, Nantes sits fifth on 23 points, just one adrift of Marseille and a coveted Europa League spot.

Related: 5 managers Italy should consider to replace Ventura

Even in admitting his interest in the position, the 66-year-old is quick to point out that there are several decorated suitors for the appointment.

"I read names like Max Allegri, Antonio Conte and Carlo Ancelotti. I say that right now they need to think carefully about what to do next. Whoever they get from that list will be excellent," a characteristically optimistic Ranieri said.

"I think that in Italy the situation of the coach is almost secondary, because we have hit rock bottom and need things to change. There are interesting young players and we will get back on our feet. Italy hadn't missed the World Cup for 60 years, but at times you need to hit rock bottom to get back on your feet."