Kiatisuk, pictured during a charity match in 2012, made over a century of appearances and helped Thailand to three- AFF (ASEAN Football Federation) Championship titles and led Hoang Anh Gia Lai to consecutive Vietnamese league and Super Cup doubles (2003 and 2004) in his first foray as a head coach.

The popular ex-international, who turns 40 on August 11, takes over from Winifried Schaefer after the German’s often tempestuous relationship with the FAT officially came to an end last week after months of speculation and rumour.

"About Winfried Schafer, we have settled it and as he has had confrontations with many organisations in his job, this should be the best decision for all," goal.com quoted Worawi as saying.

"We have appointed Zico as the new national team coach and he will also take charge of the SEA Games squad.

“His first task is the friendly match against China on June 15.”

Under Schaefer, who replaced former Manchester United and England captain Bryan Robson in July 2011, Thailand finished runners up in the 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup (the AFF’s regional championship) but have since struggle and sit bottom of Australia 2015 qualifying Group B after a shock 3-1 loss at home to Kuwait and an equally disappointing 5-2 way defeat to Lebanon.

Schaefer has remained in Thailand after being appointed head coach of defending league champions Muang Thong United on Friday.

Photo: AFP