Updated at 14.20
FULHAM TODAY ANNOUNCED the appointment of former Manchester United assistant coach Rene Meulensteen to work alongside manager Martin Jol in the role of ‘head coach’.
Meulensteen left United earlier this year following the retirement of Alex Ferguson as manager and had a 16-day spell as coach of Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala.
He arrives at Craven Cottage with Fulham languishing in the Premier League relegation zone after registering three wins, one draw and seven defeats in their opening 11 games.
“I was impressed by the vision of (Fulham owner) Shahid Khan and (chief executive) Alistair Mackintosh,” said Meulensteen.
“I’ve spent many hours talking with Martin Jol and we share a vision of how football should be played and how players should be developed. It’s our job to make sure we can bring this vision to life on the pitch for the fans.”
Mackintosh described Meulensteen’s appointment as a coup for the west London club, as the Dutchman had been linked with the vacant managerial position at top-flight rivals Crystal Palace.
“We’re all delighted to welcome Rene to Fulham,” he said.
“There was always going to be a battle for Rene’s services and, with the assistance of our chairman Shahid Khan, we’ve been able to bring one of the best coaches in the world to Fulham.”
Earlier today Meulensteen was tipped as favourite to be named named Crystal Palace boss.
Originally published at 0930.
