OFFICIAL: Fernando Hierro is Spain's new coach

Fernando Hierro will take charge of the Spanish national team for the World Cup in Russia, replacing Julen Lopetegui. Following the announcement on Tuesday that Lopetegui would be taking over at Real Madrid, the Spanish FA moved swiftly to release him from his duties as their head coach.

Hierro will take over training today and on Friday will make his debut for Spain against Portugal in La Roja's opening match in the tournament.

The decision to hand over the reigns to Hierro puts a full stop on what has proven to be a hectic last 24 hours for Spain. After the surprise news that Lopetegui had negotiated a move to Real Madrid, the press conference this morning which confirmed his sacking as Spain's coach and now the arrival of Hierro, it has barely given anyone the chance to breathe.

Hierro is the current director of football at the Spanish FA and was one of names mentioned as a potential successor to Lopetegui. Obviously the original plan was for this to happen much further down the line.

In the end Hierro, who looked quite nervous in front row during Rubiales' press conference, will take charge of the Spain team until at least the end of the World Cup.