Satan replaces Robert Svehla and has signed a one-year contract with the federation, who will now turn their attention to appointing a new head coach.

Former player Zdeno Ciger has coached the team for the past two years, but was recently relieved of his duties. 

“I’m glad that Miro has accepted our offer,” said SZĽH President Martin Kohut. 

"We believe that this is the best solution for Slovak hockey.” 

During his playing career, Satan represented Slovakia at four Olympic Games - Lillehammer 1994, Salt Lake City 2002, Turin 2006 and Vancouver 2010.

He also played in 14 International Ice Hockey Federation World Championships, including 12 in the top division, where Slovakia has played since 1996.

Satan was part of the team that won his country's sole world title in 2002, where he was also named Most Valuable Player.

He also won two silver medals in 2000 and 2012 as well as a bronze in 2003.

The 42-year-old spent 14 seasons in the National Hockey League, representing the Edmonton Oilers, Buffalo Sabres, New York Islanders, Pittsburgh Penguins and Boston Bruins.

During his time with the Penguins, Satan won the Stanley Cup in 2009.

Slovakia have not reached the quarter-finals of the World Championships or Olympics since 2013.

They finished the most recent World Championship in 14th, their lowest position since moving up to the highest division.

“It’s quite a big job, it’s two positions combined, but it’s something that I’ll now try to do and help my own country, the team I used to play for a lot and care for a lot," Satan said.

"It’s interesting new times and a big challenge to stabilise our hockey and hopefully improve it in a short time."

The SZĽH is hoping to hire a new head coach in the near future as its attention begins to turn towards Pyeongchang 2018.

Slovakia have been drawn to face Russia, the United States and Slovenia in the group stages in South Korea in February.