Valencia have appointed Ernesto Valverde as their coach for the rest of the season.

The 48-year-old has replaced Mauricio Pellegrino, who was sacked on Sunday following Los Che's 5-2 home defeat to Real Sociedad in La Liga.

"It is the first time I have taken charge of a club mid-season and I consider it a tough task," said Valverde at his presentation on Monday.

"When a coach takes over in these circumstances it is because there is a crisis and pressure to get results quickly. The most immediate objective is to transmit my ideas to the team and for the players to gain in confidence.

"I have signed for six months because that is what they offered me. I hope the team demonstrates enough that I will be able to stay for longer."

Valencia are currently 12th in the table with 18 points from 14 matches.