BUDAPEST (AFP) - Erwin Koeman of the Netherlands was on Thursday named as Peter Varhidi's successor as manager of the Hungary national team.

Varhidi was sacked after failing to secure Hungary's place at Euro 2008.

Confirming the appointment the Hungarian Football Association (MLSZ) president Istvan Kisteleki announced: "MLSZ has dismissed Peter Varhidi as national team coach and decided to replace him with Dutchman Erwin Koeman."

Koeman, part of the Holland side that captured the 1988 European championships, will take over from May 1, Kisteleki added.

The 46-year-old former midfielder is the elder brother of former Valencia boss Ronald Koeman and was previously manager of Dutch side Feyenoord between 2005 and 2007.

Varhidi, who was appointed in December 2006, said he would help his successor.