Sukiasyan accepts challenge as Armenia coach

Varuzhan Sukiasyan admitted there were hard times ahead after he was appointed Armenia coach 14 years after his first spell ended.

Sukiasyan takes the reins from Sargis Hovsepyan, who acted as caretaker following Bernard Challandes' resignation in late March. The 59-year-old will combine the role with his job as Ararat coach until the domestic season finishes.

"We have had some hard times but I'm sure we'll overcome our difficulties," he said. "There are hard times ahead, but I have always aimed for the best. We need real patriots in the team who will give their all. We need to recover the mentality of a strong and successful side."

Sukiasyan oversaw three wins in 17 games in his first stint in charge in 2000 and 2001.