McClaren failed to ensure qualification for Euro 2008

Former England boss Steve McClaren has agreed a two-year deal to manage Dutch side FC Twente.

"I'm delighted to be back in club management and looking forward to meeting staff and players," McClaren told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge of playing in the Dutch league and the Champions League qualifiers."

The chairman of FC Twente has previously admitted that some fans of the club are against the appointment.

"Ninety per cent of fans think why him? But he is used to working with top players," said Joop Munsterman.

Twente finished fourth last season to secure a place in the Champions League qualifiers for the first time.

"I noted from the first meeting with chairman Joop Munsterman and other people at the club that they were very co-operative," McClaren said.

"It's an exciting time for the club, they were very successful under Fred Rutten (now at Bundesliga side Schalke) and I cannot wait to start."

606: DEBATE It's make or break time for him now, do well there and he puts himself back in line for Premiership jobs GaryTheSmog

The 47-year-old, who had been linked to the vacant manager's position at Premier League side Blackburn Rovers, also told the BBC that he sought the advice of former PSV Eindhoven and England boss Sir Bobby Robson before accepting the role.

"He also told me that FC Twente is a fantastic club and that I would feel at home.

"I am excited to be working again at a club that fits me well. I am looking forward to this new challenge."

BBC Radio 5 Live's Ian Dennis, who worked alongside McClaren during the Euro 2008 Championship, said: "I sensed his hunger and desire to get back into management.

"He is looking forward to the challenge. It is a shrewd move, an opportunity to rebuild his career away from these shores.

"He has taken advice from Sir Bobby Robson, who did exactly the same. Steve McClaren is fiercely ambitious and cannot wait to get started."