French coach Philippe Troussier has signed a three-year contract with struggling Chinese Super League side Shenzhen Ruby Football Club.
Dubbed the 'White Witch Doctor' for his success at African league clubs, journeyman Troussier has worked with domestic and national teams in eight countries, including a successful four-year spell in charge of China's arch-rivals, Japan.
The former defender steered the Japanese national side to victory in the Asian Cup in 2000, and to the last 16 of the 2002 World Cup.
'I am very pleased to be here in China and I'm willing to face any challenge,' he said on arrival the Shenzhen Stadium.
The 55-year-old promised to inject some French finesse into the dressing room and turn around the club's fortunes when the new CSL season kicks off on April 1.
'I have some understanding of Chinese soccer - the national team, as well as the Chinese league - and I will do my best to help the team achieve better results,' Troussier told China Daily.
He added: 'The Chinese people are very passionate about soccer and I want to join the fans in reaching targets through our combined efforts.'