Christodoulou appointed Cyprus coach

Pambos Christodoulou has called on "everybody to work together" after being unveiled as the new coach of Cyprus.

The 46-year-old Christodoulou replaces Greek coach Nikos Nioplias, who stepped down four months ago after failing to overturn Cyprus's recent run of form in qualifying as they finished bottom of their 2014 FIFA World Cup section. He has signed a contract with the Cyprus Football Association (KOP/CFA) running for the duration of UEFA EURO 2016 qualifying and will discover his opposition when the draw is made in Nice on 23 February.

"I want to thank everybody at the CFA who have entrusted me with the honour of being national team coach," said Christodoulou, who led AEL Limassol FC to their first league title in 44 years in 2012 and also coached Olympiakos Nicosia FC and Anorthosis Famagusta FC. "We will make a new effort ahead of the EURO 2016 qualifying campaign and, with a lot of hard work, we can lay the right foundations that will put our national side on the right track and with the best prospects. If we all work together, we can create a better outlook."

Apart from winning the Cypriot championship with AEL, he also succeeded in guiding them into the 2012/13 UEFA Europa League group stage for the first time in their history. After a modest career as a defensive midfielder in Cyprus he moved into coaching in 2006, helping former club Doxa Katokopia FC to promotion to the top flight where they would impress for the following four seasons.

He developed a reputation for signing players from Portugal's lower leagues at bargain prices. Two of his recruits, Brazilian strikers David and Serjão, top-scored in Cyprus in 2007 and 2008 respectively. He was also praised for his astute tactical ability.

Cyprus caught the eye in UEFA EURO 2008 qualification with defeats of the Republic of Ireland and Wales as well as draws in Dublin and at home to Germany. Since then, however, the only notable victories have been against Bulgaria in 2009 and Iceland three years later.