Mihajlović accepts Serbia World Cup challenge

Siniša Mihajlović has been appointed Serbia coach on a two-year deal.

The former Bologna FC, Calcio Catania and ACF Fiorentina boss assumes a role vacated by Vladimir Petrović after Serbia failed to book a place at UEFA EURO 2012. Mihajlović, 43, has been tasked with leading Serbia to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, with qualifying beginning at home to Wales in September.

"This is a big challenge," he said. "I'm ready, though, and believe we will enjoy success. I was a member of the national team for 12 years and know what we must do. It will be a hard job, but I have confidence in our players. Also, while I am optimist I know hope is not enough – we must work hard."

Mihajlović made his name as a defender lethal from free-kicks. He won 16 trophies in a career played out in Serbia and Italy, including the 1991 European Champion Clubs' Cup with FK Crvena zvezda and the 1999 UEFA Cup Winners' Cup with S.S. Lazio. Capped 63 times (scoring nine goals), he graced the 1998 World Cup and UEFA EURO 2000, and retired in 2006.

He became an assistant to Roberto Mancini at FC Internazionale Milano, before spells as head coach at Bologna, Catania and Fiorentina. He was sacked by the Viola in November.