Eriksson relishing 'big, big job'

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Eriksson's appointment to succeed Hugo Sanchez - sacked in March - was announced by the Mexican Football Federation president Justino Compean, after the committee of the owners of Mexico's 18 top-flight teams unanimously approved the employment of the 60-year-old Swede.

"I want to thank the Mexican Football Federation for their confidence and support," said Eriksson who spoke in Spanish.

"Our goal is (to qualify for) the 2010 World Cup and try to do it better than in the past."

Eriksson is excited by the challenge of helping Mexico reach the World Cup in South Africa.

He said: "Mexico is a big, big job. To help Mexico reach the World Cup is a big challenge. You (Mexicans) have 120 million people, and it's motivating."

The Swede's appointment has come in for criticism among some members of the Mexico side.

Carlos Salcido does not think a coach who cannot speak fluent Spanish should take over in the middle of a qualifying campaign.

Andres Guardado feels interim boss Jesus Ramirez - who had taken charge of the side since the dismissal of Sanchez - should stay at least as Eriksson's assistant, given his knowledge of the squad. But Eriksson insists he is ready to prove his critics wrong.

"I like big challenges, so it is up to me to convince the supporters and the players that I am the right man," he added. "Mexico is a big challenge - and that's why I am here."