The Dutchman has turned down the offer of a new deal with the Russian side to return to the international scene.

"I have told them that pressing me is no use. I have chosen to be the coach of Belgium," Advocaat told newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws today.

The Belgium FA (KBVB) revealed the appointment of the former Holland boss is not yet official, but they are hopeful of unveiling him soon.

"He only needs to get the number of his pension fund," said KBVB board member Philippe Collin.

"But nothing can take place before Friday because until then the KBVB chairman (Francois De Keersmaecker) and (chief executive) Jean-Marie Philips are in the Bahamas."

Belgium's players welcomed Advocaat's arrival.

"He is someone with personality," said PSV Eindhoven midfielder Timmy Simons.

"He is a quiet man, but when he doesn't like something, you must be careful. I have nothing against him being a man from outside of Belgium. It's important that he has charisma. "

Simons felt it was logical for the KBVB to opt for a Dutch coach.

"Dutch national team coaches have something that others don't have, it's no coincidence that they lead national teams all over the world," he said.

AZ Alkmaar's Maarten Martens added: "I have played against Zenit with AZ. He likes to play attacking football.

"A Dutchman is in my opinion a good thing, they are known for their training methods and their tactical ability.

"And he is a coach with experience."