Murcia appoint Toshack

Murcia are rooted to the bottom of Spain's La Liga

Real Murcia have confirmed John Toshack as their new coach a day after sacking Joaquin Peiro from the role.

The Welshman, who has vast managerial experience in Spain, has been out of work since quitting Italian side Catania in January 2003.

Murcia president Jesus Samper has made no secret of his admiration for Toshack and announced his appointment on the club website on Tuesday.

"He is the best option of those that were on the table," said Samper.

"The club can confirm that the final details have been sorted out and that Toshack will be the new coach until the end of the season," a spokesman for Murcia added.

Toshack 54, faces a tough task at Murcia, who are bottom of the Primera Liga after just one win in 20 matches this season.

The much-travelled Welshman has coached Real Madrid, Real Sociedad and Deportivo La Coruna in Spain.

Toshack also briefly coached Wales and has worked with Turkish side Besiktas, French club St Etienne, Portuguese outfit Sporting Lisbon and Catania.