Nuremberg hires former Hannover coach Hecking

FC Nuremberg has named former Hannover coach Dieter Hecking as its replacement for Michael Oenning, who was fired this week.

The 46-year-old Hecking parted company with Hannover in August after just two games - one loss and one draw.

At a news conference Tuesday, Hecking said he was "passionate about this new job" and conceded the club was in a difficult situation.

Oenning was fired Monday after a dismal run of form that left the club in 17th place in the 18-team Bundesliga, going into the winter break with only 12 points from 17 games.