Former Tottenham and Real Madrid manager Juande Ramos has replaced Brazilian Zico as coach of Russian side CSKA Moscow.

The Spaniard, 54, has been out of work since his contract at Real Madrid expired at the end of last season.

"I love new challenges. We are looking forward to helping the team realise their potential in Europe," said Ramos.

CSKA are in Champions League group B alongside Manchester United but lie fourth in the Russian league.

Reports claim the deal will run until the end of the Russian season in November, but would be extended should the side reach the knockout stages of the Champions League.

Ramos was dismissed by Spurs in October 2008 after taking only two points from their first eight matches last season.

He then took the reins at the Bernabeu for a six-month spell after the departure of Bernd Schuster, guiding the side to second place in La Liga behind Barcelona.

Ramos' appointment brings to an end Zico's eight-month stint at the club which began with a 1-1 draw away against Aston Villa in the last 32 of the Uefa Cup.

A weakened Villa side subsequently lost the return leg 2-0.