Former Newcastle United and Blackburn coach Dean Saunders has been named new assistant manager of Wales.

The 43-year-old replaces Salvador Iriarte, who has been appointed director of football at Real Sociedad.

Saunders has been out of work since losing his job as assistant manager at Newcastle in February last year.

"I am really very proud and excited to be given this opportunity," said Saunders, who won 75 caps for Wales and scored 22 goals.

"I have been brought-in to help, but I also expect to learn a great deal from working alongside John [Toshack, manager] and Roy [Evans, assistant].

"I was always honoured to wear the Welsh jersey and I know I will get the same feeling by being a part of the coaching team and helping John build his side for the future."