Queiroz, who has also coached Real Madrid and had two spells as assistant to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United, has signed a three-year deal with the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI).

He replaces Tehran-born US national Afshin Ghotbi, whose contract was not renewed after Iran were knocked out of the 2011 Asian Cup by South Korea.

Queiroz most recently held the post of Portugal boss but left following a 1-0 defeat against Norway in September.

He was also embroiled in controversy when he was banned for six months by the Portuguese Anti-Doping Agency for alleged misbehaviour during an anti-doping testing session before the World Cup - a sanction which was later overturned by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

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Queiroz said today: "I appreciate the invitation from the FFIRI to let me work here.

"This is an opportunity for us to share our common dream and that is helping Iran to qualify for the World Cup 2014 in Brazil.

"This is only the beginning of my duties here. This is no time to keep talking and making promises.

"I prefer to work hard and show the outcome of my hard work on the pitch.

"We need the support of everyone, the federation, authorities and coaches of the clubs, fans and the media.

"I know the expectations of the people are high. I know everybody wants the team to qualify for the World Cup but we should be realistic and know where Iranian football is at the moment and how far it can progress over the course of the next couple of years.

"I know there is a lot of passion for football among the people in Iran. There's a huge amount of talent and potential.

"If we prepare the team well we can obtain what we want."

Queiroz was adamant he would have no problems in settling into his new role, adding: "I have worked all around the globe, in Portugal, at Manchester United, Real Madrid, in South Africa, United States etc. Wherever I have been I have adapted myself to the situation there.

"So I guess I will soon adapt to the players, weather conditions, people, culture, everything."