Jose Maria Duran has been named new sporting director of Espanyol.

After the sacking of coach Pablo Machin and the appointment of Abelardo Fernandez as his replacement, Espanyol have now moved to hire a new sporting director.

Duran, a former Espanyol general manager, has been away from the club for three years at Getafe.

However, he has now agreed to return as Espanyol battle to beat the drop.

The Catalans broke up for the LaLiga's winter recess sitting at the bottom of the table.