Real Sporting de Gijón have turned to experienced coach Javier Clemente until the end of the season as they bid to stave off relegation.

The 61-year-old replaces Manuel Preciado who was let go by Sporting at the end of last month following a poor run of results. He takes over at a club who lie second bottom in the Spanish Liga, six points from safety.

Clemente enjoyed early success as a coach, winning two Liga titles and a Copa del Rey with Athletic Club in the early 1980s. Other clubs he has led include RCD Espanyol, Club Atlético de Madrid and Olympique de Marseille.

Having last taken charge of Cameroon, the Basque-born coach has also gained international experience at the helm of Spain and Serbia. His first task in charge of Sporting will be to oversee Sunday's encounter at home to Atlético.