Avci named new Turkey boss

Thursday 17th November 2011 18:11

Abdullah Avci has been named as the new Turkey boss just a day after Guus Hiddink's departure was confirmed.

Hiddink left the post by mutual consent after his side were beaten by Croatia in their Euro 2012 play-off on Tuesday night.

The Turkish Football Federation have wasted no time in announcing the Dutchman's replacement after turning to former under-17 boss Avci on a four-year contract.

"I am very happy to be granted the honour of such a duty," he said at a press conference on Thursday.

"We will take important steps to improve the national team."

The 48-year-old, who has been in charge of Turkish top-flight club Istanbul Buyuksehir Belediyespor since 2006, led the under-17 team to their European triumph in 2005.

Avci has also established Istanbul BB as a top-flight club since winning promotion in 2007.

"Coach Abdullah deserved this position, I believe he will reach great success with the national team," federation chairman Mehmet Ali Aydinlar said.