Free State Stars have announced the appointment of former Etiole Du Sahel mentor Denis Lavagne as the new head coach of the club.

The 51-year-old was brought in to replace Giovanni Solinas, who resigned at the end of the season due to personal reasons.

The Frenchman arrives at the club with a wealth of experience and proven track record, having coached several clubs on the African continent, reports the Free State Stars website.

Lavagne had previously managed the likes of Coton Sport (Cameroon), Etiole Du Sahel (Tunisia), Al Itthiad Alexandra (Egypt) and Masde Fes (Morocco).

Also having had a short spell as coach of the Cameroon national team.

Ea Lla Koto general manager Rantsi Mokoena confirmed the Frenchman’s appointment and believes Lavagne is the right man for the job, having the most experience out of all the shortlisted candidates.

‘We are delighted to welcome Denis Lavagne to Free State Stars,’ Mokoena said.

‘Of all the candidates we interviewed for the job, his resume stood out. He has distinguished himself as a shrewd campaigner on the continent.

‘With his experience and his achievements, I have no doubt we have appointed the right man for the job,’ he added.

During the 2015-16 season Ea Lla Koto finished 12th on the Absa Premiership table with 35 point to secure their PSL status for the upcoming season.