Former Sydney FC coach Branko Culina has been appointed as the Newcastle Jets technical director.

Culina will replace Ian Crook who joined Norwich City last month as assistant coach.

Jets chief executive John Tsatsimas said he was delighted to have the man who took Sydney FC to the Asian Champions League in 2007.

"We see Branko as someone who can certainly add a high level of experience, professionalism and expertise to our club," he said.

"Obviously we have ambitions not only to ensure that every possible measure is undertaken in this upcoming AFC Champions League campaign, but also looking to the future his experience in general is a very valuable asset.''