Czech Republic
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Hasek: Influential in decision
The Czech Republic Football Association have confirmed Michal Bilek as their new head coach.
Bilek was assistant to outgoing manager Ivan Hasek, who stepped down from the role after his nation failed to qualify for World Cup 2010 in South Africa.
The former Sparta Prague and Real Betis midfielder was recommended for the post by his mentor Hasek, who feels he is the ideal candidate to turn their fortunes around.
Hasek said: "I have proposed Michal Bilek for the job.
"Thanks to his good character and his vast knowledge he has the potential to lead the national team.
"Moreover, he is ahead of other candidates because he was in charge with me in the last five fixtures. He has been voted by all members of the executive board."
Fourth coach
Bilek becomes the Czech Republic's fourth coach this year after after Hasek, Frantisek Straka, who led the team in a single friendly with Malta, and the sacked Petr Rada.
With 35 caps for his country, Bilek's managerial contract will run until the 2012 European Championships for which qualification is his primary target.
The appointment has drawn mixed reaction from Czech fans as they miss out on their first major international tournament since the World Cup in 1994.
Question marks over Bilek's managerial credentials are a concern for fans, despite him having successfully led Czech sides Blsany, Teplice, Plzen and former club Sparta Prague.
