Wednesday 22 June 2016 13:10, UK
Kerala Blasters have appointed Steve Coppell as their manager for the third edition of the Indian Super League.
Former Crystal Palace, Reading and Manchester City boss Coppell had been engaged in dialogue with Blasters to become their new manager for the last fortnight.
Sky sources understand Coppell, who worked as a Champions league pundit in India last season, had also consulted ex-England U21 manager and former Kerala Blasters boss Peter Taylor prior to taking up his new role.
Blasters are co-owned by Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar and reached the final of the inaugural Indian Super League in 2014, under the stewardship of former Liverpool and West Ham goalkeeper David James.
That side featured a clutch of British players - including former Newcastle striker Michael Chopra and Scottish duo Stephen Pearson and Jamie McAllister - and more are expected to follow this season following Coppell's appointment.
Taylor began last year as manager of the Cochin-based outfit but left midway through the season and was replaced by former Republic of Ireland International full-back Terry Phelan, who had been working as technical director of the club's grassroots programme.
"Steve is a consummate professional who is well respected in the football world," UK-based football agent Baljit Rihal, who brokered the deal taking Coppell to India, told Sky Sports.
"His 30 years managerial experience speaks for itself and will help enhance the ambitions of the Kerala Blasters this season. The atmosphere at home games in Kochi is electric with the Blasters fans being the most passionate in the ISL.
"It's an honour to represent Steve and I am confident that he will enjoy this opportunity in India."
Coppell brings a wealth of managerial experience to the job having also previously taken charge of Brentford, Bristol City and Brighton during his long coaching career.
The 60-year-old former Manchester United and England right-winger had an 18-month spell as Crawley Town's Director of Football, ending in 2013, followed by a short stint in a similar role at Portsmouth.
