Lippi appointed China coach

Marcello Lippi has been named coach of China's national side following the resignation of Gao Hongbo, the Chinese Football Association (CFA) confirmed today.

The Italian’s appointment comes after defeats to Syria and Uzbekistan left the Asian side with virtually no chance of qualifying for 2018 World Cup Russia.

Lippi, earlier this year rejected the chance to become Technical Secretary with his native Italy, flew out to Beijing to accept an official offer for the post, according to a statement on the CFA's web site. The decision was made “according to the CFA's coach selection and hiring process and through friendly consultations on both sides”.

Gao goes

The announcement follows rumours earlier in the week that the Italian would take over the reins. Former China coach Gao resigned on 11 October immediately after the team crashed to a 2-0 defeat to Uzbekistan.

Occupying 78th place in FIFA's rankings, China have picked up just one point from their last four games and sank to the bottom of their qualifying group, which includes Iran, Uzbekistan, South Korea, Syria and Qatar.