Berhalter appointed U.S. men's national team coach

FILE PHOTO: Nov 11, 2018; Harrison, NJ, USA; Columbus Crew SC head coach Gregg Berhalter stands on the pitch prior to Crew SC's match against New York Red Bulls in the Eastern Conference semifinal at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

(Reuters) - Gregg Berhalter will be the first U.S. World Cup player to coach the men's national team, U.S. Soccer said on Sunday as it announced the 45-year-old's appointment to the top job.

Berhalter, a journeyman defender who made 44 appearances for the national team, competed in two World Cups.