Van Basten named FIFA's chief officer for technical development

FIFA announced Friday that Marco van Basten has been appointed as the organization's chief officer for technical development, which sees the former Dutch international heading up projects such as football technology innovation and referee assistance programs.

FIFA has begun implementing and experimenting with video-assisted refereeing in various leagues, one of a few technical changes to the game of football. The use of goal-line technology is another area of technical innovation that Van Basten will now work to further along across the world.

“It's a great honour for me to be appointed for this assignment," Van Basten said. "I'm very proud to have the opportunity to work in the Home of FIFA, the home of world football. I hope to be able to give my contribution to ensure that football remains the number one sport in the world.

"Football is spectacular and it has to stay spectacular in every sense. We all love this sport. That's why I will work hard to develop football technically in the way that our sport will give to the fans and the players always emotions and joy."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino spoke highly of the 1992 FIFA World Player of the Year, noting that it was "immediately clear" that he would be a "fantastic asset for FIFA" after holding discussions together for the last few months regarding his vision for the game.

"We have to cherish football, we have to protect football and develop football," Infantino said. "Marco is a great expert, not only a legend. There is a lot he can do for football, for the game and around the pitch in the world. I'm extremely happy that he joined our team and I'm sure that he will do a great job."