Sáez stays at Spanish helm

By Andy Hall

Spain coach Iñaki Sáez has renewed his contract for an extra two seasons, taking him up to the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Successful predigree
Sáez, 61, took over the post from José Antonio Camacho following the 2002 World Cup after stepping up from a successful six-year spell as Spain’s youth coach. In that time he had led Spain to several titles, including the 1998 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Portugal place
His first game in charge a 1-1 draw with Hungary in Budapest in August of that year, and the former Athletic Club Bilbao, UD Las Palmas and Albacete Balopmié coach led his side to UEFA EURO 2004™ via the play-offs. His side begin their campaign in Portugal against Group A rivals Russia on 12 June.