Panathinaikos plump for experienced Ferreira

Panathinaikos FC have reacted quickly to Nikos Nioplias's departure by announcing that Jesualdo Ferreira will take over as their new coach.

The 64-year old Portuguese signed a contract with the Greens until June 2012 before heading to watch his side against Iraklis FC on Saturday. "I am very happy to be here and to have reached a deal with Panathinaikos," he said. "I am eager to start working as soon as possible and have a lot to give to the club, who have placed their trust in me."

Ferreira has managed several sides in his homeland but made his name at the helm of SC Braga (2003-06) then FC Porto (2006-09), where he won three consecutive league titles and two Portuguese Cups. He departed after the Dragons missed out on a UEFA Champions League spot last season before a short spell with Málaga CF this term.

His new appointment comes five days after the Athens outfit parted company with Nioplias, who had been in the post for 11 months. The Greens lie bottom of UEFA Champions League Group D with two points from four matches, and host leaders FC Barcelona on Wednesday.