John Hynes will lead the United States in Russia ©Getty Images

John Hynes will lead the United States team as head coach at the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Men's World Championship in Russia, it has been announced.

USA Hockey has appointed the 41-year-old ahead of the tournament in Moscow and Saint Petersburg in May.

Hynes is currently head coach of NHL outfit New Jersey Devils, who he kept in play-off contention for much of the season, ultimately falling short.

He previously spent six seasons, between 2003 and 2009, as head coach at USA Hockey's National Team Development Programme, leading the country to three medals at the IIHF under-18 World Championships.

This included a gold medal in 2006 in Sweden.

John Hynes is currently coaching New Jersey Devils
John Hynes is currently coaching New Jersey Devils ©Getty Images

"John has been involved with US teams on multiple occasions in the past and we're excited to have him leading our team at the Men's World Championship," said Jim Johannson, assistant executive director of hockey operations for USA Hockey and a member of the US Men's National Team Advisory Group.

"John's teams are always well prepared and his extensive knowledge of our player pool is a big benefit as well."

The Americans have been drawn with Canada, Finland, Slovakia, Belarus, France, Germany and Hungary in Group B for the tournament in Russia.

Despite being a powerhouse in the sport, the US haven't won the World Championships since 1960.

Last year they claimed the bronze medal in the Czech Republic under head coach Todd Richards, who was sacked by Columbus Blue Jackets in October.