Former Spain international defender Fernando Hierro was named as assistant coach to Carlo Ancelotti at European champions Real Madrid on Thursday in succession to Zinedine Zidane.

"Real Madrid announces that Fernando Hierro will join the first team as assistant coach," said Real in a statement.

Hierro, 46, replaces Zidane who has taken up a post as coach with third division Real Madrid Castilla, the club's reserve team.

Hierro played for Real from 1989 to 2003, winning five La Liga titles and two Champions League crowns.

afp