The 42-year-old ex-Sale player takes up his new post at Edgeley Park, having guided the Russian national side to this year's World Cup in New Zealand.

BBC: Sale Sharks bring back ex-player & coach Steve Diamond

He has led the west London side to the English FA Cup and finally fulfilled the ambitions of the club's Russian owner Roman Abramovich in lifting Europe's top club prize.

CNN: SHARE THIS

The Black Sea resort city of Sochi will host the Winter Olympic Games and the reinstated Russian Grand Prix in 2014, and Russia will host the FIFA World Cup in 2018, with many hotel chains around the country investing in anticipation.

BBC: The roar of rising Russia

"You have entrusted us with the Fifa World Cup for 2018 and I can promise you will never regret it, " said Russian Deputy Prime Minister Igor Shuvalov.

BBC: Russia & Qatar will host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups

Not only has Sharapova failed to play in front of her Russian fans in recent years, she has also declined to play for her country in the Fed Cup, the women's version of the Davis Cup.

BBC: SPORT | Tennis | From Russia - no love

The big-serving Russian, who is the world number seven, is aiming to secure his place in the season-ending Masters Cup for the top eight players in the rankings.

BBC: SPORT | Tennis | Rusedski races through in Paris

Zenit impressed with an attractive counter-attacking style en route to Uefa Cup glory last season and the same style had United on the back foot throughout, particularly down the Russian side's right, where Patrice Evra had a torrid time in the opening half.

BBC: Man Utd 1-2 Zenit St Petersburg