Liverpool legend Sami Hyypia has been named permanent coach of Bayer Leverkusen.

Hyypia, along with assistant Sascha Lewandowski, has signed a three-year deal with Leverkusen.

"Although we did not know each other beforehand and only had little time to develop a concept, the last weeks for Sascha, the club and I were successful," said the Reds legend.

"For Bayer to now give us a chance to carry on together is a great show of faith.

"We are convinced that, with this team and with these colleagues, we will be able to play a good role both at home and abroad in future.''