Kashtan inspired by Israel test

'Adrenalin and willpower'
The usually dour coach was positively buzzing as he looked forward to the job. "I am not afraid of challenges," Kashtan said. "I am full of adrenalin and willpower as I face this task and look to guide Israel to their first major achievement in 36 years."

Finals appearance
Israel's only appearance at a finals tournament came as they travelled to the 1970 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, but having been drawn against England, Croatia, Russia, F.Y.R. Macedonia, Estonia and Andorra in UEFA EURO 2008™ Group E, Kashtan is feeling confident.

England expectations
"The EURO draw presents us with new challenges against attractive teams and our fans will be able to see players of the highest calibre," he said. "England is the birthplace of football and they are one of the best sides in the world. Croatia and Russia are also regarded as very strong teams."

Full of enthusiasm
Speaking at the Israel Football Association headquarters on Sunday, Kashtan was delighted to have finally landed the role that many expected him to be given when his predecessor Avraham Grant was appointed.

'Very proud'
"For 25 years I have worked as a coach at club level in the top flight," he said. "After years of managing all the top clubs in Israel, there was one major position I had not filled and that is the role of national coach which I am very proud to get."

Coaching brilliance
A right-winger for Hapoel Petach-Tikva FC and Hapoel Kfar-Saba FC, Kashtan won three caps for Israel, but his coaching career has been more impressive. The most successful coach in Israel's history, he has won six league titles with four different teams, as well as five cups.

Landmark achievement
Notable highs include domestic doubles achieved with both Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC and Hapoel Tel-Aviv, but perhaps his greatest moment came in the 2000/01 UEFA Cup when his counterattacking tactics took Hapoel Tel-Aviv to the quarter-finals.

Grant's progress
He has a major act to follow after Grant's resignation. The latter guided Israel undefeated through their 2006 World Cup campaign despite being in a group with France, Switzerland and the Republic of Ireland, before deciding to step down on 26 October.

Swansong friendly
Grant remains nominally in charge, and with Kashtan honouring his commitment to lead Hapoel Tel-Aviv until June, he may oversee matters for one last match when the national side take on Denmark in a friendly at the Ramat Gan stadium on 1 March.

Important meeting
However, Kashtan will be at the 23 February meeting which will decide the schedule of the qualifying games for UEFA EURO 2008™.