Wiesinger relishes Nürnberg challenge

Michael Wiesinger has been appointed as the new 1. FC Nürnberg coach following the departure of Dieter Hecking to VfL Wolfsburg.

Wiesinger, who will celebrate his 40th birthday on Thursday, has been serving as the club's Under-23 coach while Armin Reutershahn, Hecking's assistant, will remain in that role. Former midfielder Wiesinger played for Nürnberg between 1993 and 1999, before going on to FC Bayern München – in a spell when they won the UEFA Champions League and two Bundesliga titles – and TSV 1860 München before ending his career in the lower divisions.

Taking over a team in 14th, former FC Ingolstadt 04 coach Wiesinger said: "Nürnberg are my club; I was a player here and have put my heart and passion into my work here over the past year and a half. To get the chance to take on this sporting challenge is very special for me. It's a task that I trust myself with because I know the club and the setting very well."