Gao Hongbo was named China's new national soccer team coach yesterday to become the youngest man to take the helm in 30 years.

The 43-year-old former striker guided Changchun to the Chinese Super League title in 2007 and his appointment was met with a 60 percent approval rating in an online survey, the Beijing Morning Post said. Gao was in the fray along with temporary caretaker Yin Tiesheng, 2004 Olympics boss Shen Xiangfu and former Shanghai coach Wu Jingui. Local media said the Chinese Football Association was split between Gao and veteran Shen.

(Agencies via Shanghai Daily April 17, 2009)