Liverpool legend Sami Hyypia has been handed his first job in football management after being made the joint-manager of Bayern Leverkusen.

Along with Sascha Lewandowski, Hyypia was made interim boss back in April after the sacking of Robin Dutt, and picked up 14 points from a possible 18. Now the duo have been given the role permanently, and the club's director of sport, Rudi Voller, believes Hyppia's experience could be helpful.

"Sascha Lewandowski and Sami Hyypia proved in their six games this season that they could lead this team with a blend of competence, charisma, hard work and relaxation," said Voller.

"This refreshing combination gives us reason to look into the future optimistically. With the duo of Lewandowski and Hyypia, we want to further cement our place in the top third of the Bundesliga with the aim of qualifying for European competition.

"Sami has played at the highest level in Europe for 10 years and, in his last two years as a player with Leverkusen, he left a very good impression. He was made to coach a team and he will certainly take Bayer forwards in his new role together with Sascha."

The pair have been awarded the job on a three-year deal at Leverkusen, who finished fifth in the Bundesliga.