Hierro to replace sacked Lopetegui as Spain manager

Fernando Hierro will manage Spain at the 2018 World Cup after Julen Lopetegui was sensationally sacked on Wednesday.

The former Bolton Wanderers defender was previously the sporting director of the national team, and will now step into the breach following Lopetegui's astonishing sacking on Wednesday.

Lopetegui was appointed Real Madrid manager on Tuesday, with an announcement from the club claiming that he would take the role following the conclusion of the World Cup, with Spain set to play Portugal in their opening game on Friday.

However, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) took the decision to sack the former Porto boss on Wednesday, with the announcement of his deal with Real reportedly sending shockwaves through the nation's football hierarchy.