File photo of Gao Hongbo.

Former China national team coach Gao Hongbo will take over the side again, yet on an interim basis, the Chinese Football Association said on Wednesday.

Gao, who coached the Chinese national team between 2009 and 2011, will be tasked with turning round their fortunes in their 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign.

"Gao will take charge of the national team for the next two World Cup qualifiers," the CFA said in a statement.

Frenchman Alain Perrin was sacked last month with China third in their second-round qualifying group for the 2018 World Cup, seven points off the pace of Qatar.

China's next World Cup qualifying game is on March 24 at home to the Maldives, before hosting Qatar on March 29.

The CFA is seeking a replacement for Perrin with former Japan manager Zico and ex-Italy boss Cesare Prandelli being confirmed as candidates.

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