A novel discrete-time variable structure control technique is presented in this paper for uncertain continuous-time systems. The design algorithm makes use of the concept of time-delay control in order to estimate the effects of the system perturbations inside the switching region. The controller performances have been evaluated by simulation using a benchmark problem proposed in literature. A satisfactory behavior is obtained also in the presence of remarkable uncertainties, showing noticeable robustness with respect to parameter variations and external disturbances. Moreover, the time-response characteristics can be shaped by the designer, properly tuning the control algorithm parameters.