Tuesday 16 February 2016 12:34, UK
Former Chelsea striker Andriy Shevchenko has joined Ukraine's coaching staff ahead of Euro 2016.
The 2004 Ballon d'Or winner, who also played for Dynamo Kiev and AC Milan, has succeeded Olexandr Zavarov as assistant to head coach Mykhaylo Fomenko.
Shevchenko scored 48 goals in 111 international appearances, representing his country at the 2006 World Cup in Germany and at Euro 2012, co-hosted by Ukraine and Poland.
The 39-year-old, who won the Champions League with Milan and FA Cup with Chelsea, turned down a chance to become Ukraine's head coach in 2012.
He claimed he did not have the required qualifications, but in March 2015 completed a two-year programme for a UEFA pro licence and believes the experience of working under some of the top coaches in Europe will stand him in good stead in his new role.
"After almost four years on vacation, I am coming back to big football, as a coach," Shevchenko said.
"I worked with great coaches like Valery Lobanovskyi, Carlo Ancelotti, Jose Mourinho and got a huge experience.
"Coaching courses helped me to shape up my ideas and determine my own vision of football. Hopefully this will help me in the future."
The Football Federation of Ukraine decided not to extend former assistant Zavarov's contract, and Fomenko announced the new appointment on Tuesday.
"We made our choice in favour of Shevchenko, who will be working with the Ukraine's coaching staff," Fomenko said.
Ukraine have been drawn in Group C at Euro 2016 along with Germany, Poland and Northern Ireland.
