Stoichkov opts for Celta

Hristo Stoichkov has resigned as Bulgaria coach to take over at Celta Vigo.

The former Barcelona striker has replaced Fernando Vazquez at the Spanish strugglers after he was sacked on Monday.

Celta are currently sitting in the bottom three in La Liga following a poor run of form which saw them lose three straight in the league.

The Bulgarian Football Union announced earlier on Tuesday that Stoichkov had quit his post as Bulgaria coach.

"We have accepted the resignation of Bulgaria coach Hristo Stoichkov and team manager Dimitar Dimitrov," BFU president Borislav Mihailov said.

"It's his own decision and after having talks with the other members of BFU's executive committee we decided to respect his will."

Bulgaria did not qualify for last summer's World Cup and look unlikely to reach Euro 2008 after some disappointing performances.

Bulgaria are currently third in Group G and five points behind Netherlands in qualifying for next summer's finals.