体坛英语新闻：Schalke appoint Wagner as new head coach

BERLIN, May 9 (Xinhua) -- Schalke have named David Wagner as their new head coach for the next season, the "Royal Blues" announced in an official statement on Thursday.

The 47-year-old head coach will take over from caretaker Huub Stevens, who succeeded on Domenico Tedesco's dismissal in March, after putting pen to paper on a three-year deal.

"We are delighted that we were able to sign with David Wagner a coach who fits perfectly into our job profile. He can form a team with his personality and improve players individually," Schalke's sporting director Jochen Schneider said.

Schalke, who finished as runners-up last season, had a rough Bundesliga season 2018-2019 as they defended their top-flight status with only three rounds to spare.

"I know from my own experience as a player, the strength that Schalke can develop when the team, club and fans pull together," Wagner, who played two years at Schalke, said.

"Diving back into this world and to help change the current situation again for the better, is the biggest motivation for me to return to the Bundesliga," he added.

In November 2015, Wagner took the reins at second division side Huddersfield Town. The promotion to the Premier League as well as keeping the top-flight status in the following season caused a stir in England's first division.

Wagner's new club sit currently on the 15th position of the standings. Schalke encounter fifth placed Bayer Leverkusen at the 33rd round in Bundesliga on Saturday.