RIO DE JANEIRO, April 30 (Xinhua) -- Former Japan international striker Wagner Lopes has been named coach of Brazilian Serie A club Criciuma.

The 45-year-old was appointed less than a day after the sacking of Caio Junior, the club announced on Wednesday.

Lopes, who began his career for Sao Paulo, spent most of his playing career in Japan and, after being naturalized as a Japanese citizen, represented the Asian nation at the 1998 World Cup in France.

"I know this is going to be a big challenge but I've worked hard to get where I am and I'm ready," Lopes said during a press conference.

Criciuma are languishing in 19th place in Brazil's top flight, having lost their first two matches of the season.