KUALA LUMPUR: Former Malaysian defender Ong Kim Swee was named the national side’s coach on Monday as the country’s football association looks to arrest a dramatic fall in international rankings.

The 45-year-old was picked over two other short-listed candidates  Croatian Bojan Hodak and Dutchman Robert Alberts  and will look to bolster a national side that suffered a shocking 10-0 defeat to the United Arab Emirates in a World Cup qualifier in September.

“I thank the FAM (Football Association of Malaysia) management for giving me the trust. I know it is a hot seat. I will try to make the team win matches and improve our ranking,” a delighted Ong told AFP.

“I have confidence in the players. They have demonstrated passion, hard work and determination,” he added.

Ong received a two-year deal and will take on the position full-time after being named the national side’s interim coach following the sudden resignation of his predecessor Dollah Salleh after the UAE defeat.