Boniek's short reign ends

Zbigniew Boniek has resigned as coach of Poland after a disappointing start to the country's UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifying campaign.

Majewski in charge
Boniek announced his decision today in a statement delivered to Michel Listkiewicz, the chairman of the Polish Football Federation (PZPN). Boniek's assistant, Stefan Majewski, has been placed in temporary charge of the national team, although the next Group 4 qualifier is not until 29 March when Poland tackle Hungary at home.

'Right decision'
"I have been thinking about it for a couple of days," said Boniek. "I think it is the right one and I do not intend to comment. I'd like to thank all my colleagues at the PZPN and the players for their effort in representing our national colours with dignity. I wish all the best to my successor."

Latvian loss
The 46-year-old, who took over the national team on 7 July, gave no clue as to what he would do in the future. In five matches under Boniek, Poland won two games, drew once and lost twice - including a defeat by Latvia in qualifying for EURO 2004™.

Impressive pedigree
Majewski is a former international defender. He graduated from the famous Cologne Academy before working with the youth team at 1. Kaiserslautern in Germany. He has also coached Polish clubs KS Amica Wronki, Zaglebie Lubin and Swit Nowy Dwor Mazowiecki.

Meeting about replacement
"The decision about a new coach will be made after the president meets with the coaching department and the board of the federation on 20 December," said PZPN spokesman Michal Koceaba.