The Arizona Cardinals have announced that Bruce Arians has joined the side as their new head coach.

The NFC West side fired Ken Whisenhunt at the end of the regular season, having finished last in their division.

Arians said in a statement: "I never thought it was going to come. I appreciate it so much. I will give it every single thing I have. The passion and energy I bring to this is something I love to do.

"There is so much excitement. The more I got to meet with everyone here the more I got excited for the opportunity. I knew it was the right fit for me."

Quarterback Kevin Kolb added: "I've heard great things about Bruce Arians, not only as a coach but as a person. I look forward to working with him and winning a lot of games."

Arians was the offensive coordinator with the Indianapolis Colts this season, but spent much of the year as interim head coach while Chuck Pagano received medical treatment.