Roger Lemerre appointed to lead Atlas Lions

(MAP) -Rabat, May 13 - Frenchman, Roger Lemerre, was picked to succeed his countryman, Henri Michel, in leading the Moroccan soccer squad, local Football Federation (FRMF) revealed in a press release.

The appointment comes after several months of negotiations on whether to opt for a Moroccan or a foreign coach, and only three weekends before the opening group qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup.

Lemerre, 66, will take charge on July 1, 2008, the release said.

The decision was taken “after deep reflection” and “meticulous consideration” of the bids presented, and “while taking into consideration the experiences lived recently,” FRMF said, concluding that “all the conditions are now met for Mr. Lemerre to takes up the responsibility of the national teams.”

Lemerre is succeeding his countryman Henri Michel who was fired in January after the poor performance of the Moroccan soccer squad in the African Cup finals in Ghana, and their early exit from the tournament.

The Federation said it will name trained and experienced local coaches to ensure the technical supervision of the other categories of national teams.