Ma Liangxing, former coach of Chinese national women's team, took over as head coach of Chinese men's second division club Zhuhai Zhongbang on Friday.

Former China captain Fan Zhiyi, the first Chinese to play in England, was announced to join the club as Ma's assistant and player.

Both from Shanghai, Ma and Fan were announced at a news conference in Zhuhai and they expressed confidence to help the club win promotion in two years.

"It's a big challenge for me to change from women's football to the men's," Ma said. "But I love to take challenge. I have been fully ready for the new job."

Ma was sacked by the Chinese Football Association after his team suffered a surprise 1-0 defeat to Canada in the fourth Women' s World Cup in Portland, the United States last October.

The 33-year-old Fan, once China's ace striker, has seen his playing career spiral downwards after being released by English first division side Cardiff City last year.

But Fan, who also played for English first division club Crystal Palace and Scottish premier league side Dundee, said Zhuhai is not his last club before retirement.

"This is not my last stop," Fan said. "But it's really a turning point of my career."

"I love football and I will try my best for this club. Obviously, winning a place in the Chinese Premier League is our top priority," he added.

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