Ernst Middendorp has officially been named Gordon Igesund's successor in the Maritzburg United hotseat.

Football365.co.za reported early on Monday that the German was in pole position to land the post after meeting the players on Sunday afternoon.

He ousted former Moroka Swallows boss Julio Leal, who was also on the shortlist for the job.

Speaking to the club's official website, CEO Afzal Khan went through the events of the last week:

"After the parting of ways with Gordon Igesund, the club was determined to bring in a highly qualified and experienced coach who can get the team to play a structured, winning brand of football.

"Club chairman Farook Kadodia was overwhelmed at the response to the vacant head coach position which saw the club receive over 28 applications from local and International coaches alike.

"The club exhausted all avenues in ensuring that the application process was extensive in ensuring the successful candidate fulfills all the necessary criteria required by the club.

"Middendorp's presentation, together with his knowledge of the club and its players stood out and we believe that the appointment of Ernst Middendorp will bring a new lease of life to both the technical team and players.

"His professionalism, coaching techniques, together with his organization and planning is what clearly has been lacking in the last 18 months at the club and we firmly believe that firm commitment and astute planning will lead the team to success.

"The German has signed a contract until the end of the season, with an option to renew. We encourage all supporters and the soccer loving community of Pietermaritzburg to support the new coach and continue rallying behind the team," concluded Khan.

Meanwhile, Igesund has apparently being roped in as head coach of Free State Stars.