Chris Coleman said his appointment as Wales manager was the proudest moment of his career yesterday but admitted it was a bittersweet moment following the death of Gary Speed.

The FA of Wales (FAW) confirmed that former Fulham boss Coleman had been chosen to build on the work of Speed, whose death last November shocked the football world.

However, Coleman acknowledged that his appointment was tinged with sadness following the death of Speed, his former international team-mate and room-mate.

“Whilst on one hand it’s probably the proudest moment of my career to be given the opportunity to lead my country, but then to be given that opportunity because of the circumstances nobody could foresee, so it’s bittersweet for me, of course it is,” Coleman told a news conference.

“I was very close friends with Gary, 30 years, so it’s a difficult experience for me. It’s probably the most difficult press conference I’ve ever done or ever had to do, I imagine.

“But I’m very proud to be the new manager and I’m also very sad because of the situation we find ourselves in.”

Larissa furious

Meanwhile, Greek second division club Larissa insisted last night that newly-appointed Wales coach Chris Coleman is still under contract with them until June.

Although some reports said the club was contemplating legal action against both the Football Association of Wales and Coleman, a spokesman for the club told AFP that an official decision had not yet been made.

Larissa said that Coleman is still under a one-year contract and that no contract termination agreement was signed.