Ruud Gullit said he was ready for "a huge challenge" after being formally introduced as Los Angeles Galaxy head coach at the Major League Soccer team's home stadium.

The 45-year-old Dutchman, appointed as successor to Frank Yallop on a three-year contract, was paraded in front of the media at the Home Depot Center.

"This is a very interesting move for me," former European Footballer of the Year Gullit said. "Soccer is a growing sport here and has the potential to become huge in America. I am really proud to be in the beginning of that process."

Gullit, who previously coached Chelsea, Newcastle United and Feyenoord, takes over a team that failed to reach the playoffs for the last two seasons under Yallop.

"It's a huge challenge to be here but it's all here for the taking," said Gullit, who was European Footballer of the Year in 1987.