UEFA Euro 2004 Portugal
kickin'around
AFP, Paris
Michel Platini would seem to have come off the fence over his opinion of who should take over as France coach from Jacques Santini, backing his former France teammate Jean Tigana. "He could make a very good France coach," Platini said. Tigana has previously coached Monaco and London side Fulham to great effect. Platini reserved judgment on another former international's candidacy, that of Laurent Blanc. "I don't know if his qualities would be sufficient for France," said Platini. Blanc has never coached. A third candidate, Bruno Metsu the 2002 World Cup coach of Senegal is also said to be in the frame. RICARDO THE LIONHEART
The Portuguese press reserved its highest praise for goalkeeper Ricardo on Friday following their defeat of England, who also came in for compliments. "Yes!" screamed the front-page of Diario of Noticias. "Ricardo the Lionheart caught the English off guard. He took off his gloves, saved the last penalty and scored the winning goal." IS THERE A PILOT ON BOARD
Denmark have obtained 10,000 extra tickets for their quarterfinal against the Czech Republic in Porto on Sunday but can't sell them in a case of too many planes and not enough pilots. DAUM SAYS NOT HIM
Christoph Daum has quashed suggestions that he is one of the contenders to succeed Rudi Voller as coach of the German national team. "I am not part of these discussions, there has been no contact (with the German Football Federation)."
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