Jerusalem, Dec 28 (IANS) Eli Guttman has been named the new coach of the Israel football team, the country's football association announced.

Guttman, the former Hapoel Tel Aviv manager, replaced Frenchman Luis Fernandez for the job.

Fernandez's contract was not renewed after he failed to lead Israel to the Euro 2012 finals.

'I am happy to announce the new coach of the Israel team,' chairman Avi Luzon was quoted as saying by Xinhua. 'The choice of Eli Guttman is not by chance, Eli is a professional with tactical discipline.'

'Today I am fulfilling half a dream,' the 53-year-old Guttman said. 'The second half will be fulfilled for all of us when we qualify for the World Cup.'

Guttman's first match in charge will be a friendly against Euro 2012 hosts Ukraine Feb 29.

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