Beenhakker accepts Polish challenge

Leo Beenhakker has been appointed coach of Poland. The 63-year-old Dutchman is the first foreigner to take charge of the national team and will aim to guide the Poles to UEFA European Championship qualification for the first time.

World Cup success
Beenhakker has signed a two-year deal to replace Pawel Janas. He recently helped Trinidad and Tobago to their first FIFA World Cup, where the 'Soca Warriors' won admirers with some impressive displays including a goalless draw with Sweden.

Widespread reforms
"Poland have a long history of football, and several very good results behind them, but they have never been to a European Championship and this will be a challenge for me," said Beenhakker. The one-time Real Madrid CF, AFC Ajax and Netherlands coach has signalled his intention to carry out a widespread reform of the Polish game from junior level upwards.

Polish roots
Former internationals Wlodimierz Smolarek and Tomasz Rzasa will be employed to scout Germany and the Netherlands respectively for players with Polish roots. They will attempt to ensure they no longer lose players such as Lukas Podolski and FIFA World Cup Golden Shoe winner Miroslav Klose, both of whom were born in Poland but chose to represent Germany.