Hamren to coach Sweden

Erik Hamren, who led Rosenborg to the Norwegian league title last season, will take over as coach of his native Sweden with immediate effect, the Swedish Football Association said Wednesday.

Hamren, who will replace Lars Lagerbaeck who resigned in October after Sweden failed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup, will however also stay on as Rosenborg coach until August 31, 2010.

Just last week, the Swedish association said talks with Rosenborg about signing Hamren, 52, had broken down.

“After last week’s breakdown in the negotiations, the two sides have after a few days’ break reached an agreement on Erik Hamren becoming Sweden’s coach,” it said in a statement.

Hamren’s job specification will be limited to coaching the squad’s international matches until August 31 after which he will become a full-time coach.

“We are very happy and proud to sign Erik Hamren as coach. For the Swedish Football Association, this is a long-term solution,” team president Lars-Aake Lagrell said.

Hamren has coached Rosenborg since June 2008 and transformed the Norwegian club, blazing to the title with just one defeat.

“To become the national squad coach for one’s own country has been a big dream for me, and I’m very grateful that Rosenborg has given me this opportunity,” he said.

Hamren will make his first appearance with Sweden in an away match against Italy on November 18.