FC Köln confirm Friedhelm Funkel as Gisdol's replacement
FC Köln have brought in Friedhelm Funkel as head coach on a deal until the summer.
Friedhelm Funkel has been appointed FC Köln coach until the end of the season, taking over from the recently sacked Markus Gisdol.
"Friedhelm doesn't just have a lot of experience but is also someone who can be completely trusted in such situations. He will lead our team until the end of the season, with the goal of staying up," said FC Köln managing director Horst Heldt.
"He has the sovereignty that is now required to give a new impulse at this decisive stage, to stay calm and to prepare our team for the upcoming and important six games," he added.
Funkel commented:
"I have followed FC intensively in the past few weeks and had a good talk with Horst. The team have recently put in good performances but have not been rewarded. When working with the boys, now it is about getting the necessary points with the same effort so that we stay in the league. I am convinced that we can do it."
The 67-year-old already served as Köln coach from February 2002 until October 2003.
'The Billy Goats' sit 17th in the Bundesliga table with six games left to play this season.