Hugo Sanchez has been named coach of Primera Liga strugglers Almeria until the end of the season.

The club confirmed the appointment of the former Mexico boss a little over 24 hours after sacking Gonzalo Arconada in the wake of the 1-0 defeat at Sporting Gijon - Almeria's fourth defeat in five games.

That reverse left the Rojiblancos in 16th spot in La Liga, three points and two places above the drop zone.

Club president Alfonso Garcia outlined his intention to have a new coach in place by December 29, when the players return from their Christmas break to start training ahead of the second half of the campaign.

Sanchez, 50, will arrive in Almeria at the weekend and take his first training session on Monday.

His initial contract will run until the summer, with the option for a further year if all goes well.