Chris Coleman appointed Wales manager

Jan 19, 2012, 13:12 GMT

London - Chris Coleman was on Thursday appointed Wales manager in succession of the late Gary Speed.

The former defender Coleman, 41, will make his debut in a February 29 friendly against Costa Rica.

Speed took his life in November and Welsh FA president Jonathan Ford spoke of a difficult process to select a new manager.

'This has been a very difficult process. We have explored every avenue, every scenario possible. We have taken on board the thoughts and views of the backroom staff, the players and the supporters,' said Ford.

'All along we believe that we have been respectful and dignified and had no wish to be involved in a public debate on the appointment of Gary's successor.'

'Gary was the manager of Welsh football and of course we want to continue his legacy. He was not a figurehead, he was the manager and that is why we have decided on the appointment of Chris Coleman to build on the excellent foundations put in place by Gary.'

Coleman told a news conference: 'We're still all shocked by what happened and we're still grieving.

'I am excited but I am subdued because of the circumstances, it's not going to be easy but it's something I'm prepared for. On one hand it is the proudest moment of my career but on the other hand ... I was very close friends with Gary for 30 years.

Coleman won 32 Wales caps and is now their 12th national team manager. The appointment came shortly after he quit his job at Greek second division club Larisa. He has also been manager at Fulham, Coventry City and Spain's Real Sociedad.