Culina takes over as head coach of the NSW NPL side after Mark Rudan stepped down last week. 

Rudan left the club in October last year, but returned early in 2017 before a coaching trip to USA with PSG in July. 

Jerry Bilokapic and Tomi Vidovic took over during his absence, but upon his return it was announced the duo would continue as head coaches, while Rudan would act as a mentor. 

However, Sydney United confirmed on social media on Wednesday that Culina would be coaching the team instead. 

The NSW NPL is over for the reason, but Sydney United are still in the FFA Cup and take on Heidelberg United in the Round of 16.

Culina, who retired from playing in 2013, takes after his father Branko, who also coach Sydney United. 

The 37-year-old began his playing career with the club, making his NSL debut in 1996. 

Culina spent the majority of his career in the Netherlands with Ajax, FC Twente and PSV before returning to the A-League to play with Gold Coast United and Sydney FC.