Belgians hand Waseige World Cup deal

Belgian national team coach Robert Waseige has signed a contract extension that means he will take charge of the team's 2002 World Cup campaign.

Waseige was hired last August and guided Belgium to a win in Italy in February to show he was well on course to mount a challenge at Euro 2000 which Belgium co-host with Holland from June 10th.

The 60 year old is campaigning for more time with his players to prepare for games and has earned praise from his bosses and players for the recent revival in the national team.

Waseige is the first Walloon speaking national team manager and has coached at various levels since 1972. He was manager of the year on Belgium for 1984, '95 and '96 and has produced a Belgian side that plays well in his favoured 4-4-2 formation.