Former Rangers defender Kevin Muscat has replaced Ange Postecoglou as manager at Yokohama F Marinos.

The Australian had been assisting Postecoglou in Japan before the latter departed to take over at Celtic.

There had even been rumours that Muscat could be heading across the Glasgow divide with his old pal, though those were quickly shot down.

And now it has been confirmed the 47-year-old will be in charge of the J-League outfit for the coming campaign.

"It's an honour to become the new manager of Yokohama FM, one of Japan's most successful clubs," Muscat said after being unveiled. "I want to thank the club for this opportunity and I'm excited about this new challenge in Asia's most competitive league.

"In order to reach our objectives we have to continue to build on what Ange Postecoglou established and I want to do my best. I look forward to meeting the players and staff as we all work hard to accomplish something special."