Dutchman Arie Haan has been hired by Albania to coach its national team for the next two years, Albania's football federation said on Thursday.

 

The 59-year-old Dutchman, who will replace Croatia's Otto Baric, is expected in the country after the New Year to sign his contract that will last until 2010.

 

Haan has coached the Chinese and Cameroon national teams, and he has the experience of working in various countries and with different clubs.

 

Baric resigned in November after Albania lost 4-2 to Belarus and 6-1 to Romania to finish fifth in Euro 2008 qualifying Group G.

 

(Xinhua News Agency December 28, 2007)