Queiroz leaves United for Portugal

Manchester United assistant manager Carlos Queiroz has been appointed Portugal coach, the Portuguese Soccer Federation (FPF) have confirmed.

Queiroz takes over from Luiz Felipe Scolari who stepped down following Euro 2008 after 5 1/2 years in charge of Portugal to join Chelsea.

"I am very proud and honoured to be able to go back and serve my country," the FPF quoted Queiroz as saying in a statement. "This is a very special position that any professional would want."

Queiroz has agreed a four-year contract and is to be presented to the media on Wednesday.

The 53-year-old former Real Madrid coach will take full responsibility for all aspects of Portugal's national teams, including oversight of the youth teams.

He was previously coach of Portugal's Under-20 teams from 1990 to 1993.

"Carlos Queiroz is unquestionably one of the top Portuguese coaches and was my first choice to be head coach," said FPFpresident Gilbert Madail.

"Although I have never worked with him because he was no longer with the national set-up when I arrived, I have followed his career with much interest and the experience he has gained in all the places he has worked will be important in helping us achieve the success we want."

Winger Cristiano Ronaldo, who has been playing under Queiroz at Old Trafford for the last four years, believes the FPF have made a wise choice.

He told Portuguese broadcaster RTP: "He is a perfect choice. I have been working with him for some time and I just have to say that he is very good for this job."