Mönchengladbach reward Köppel

VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach have rewarded caretaker coach Horst Köppel for his role in ensuring the club's Bundesliga survival by offering the 57-year-old the job on a permanent basis.

Permanent reward
Köppel has signed a two-year contract with Mönchengladbach after twice stepping into the breach in a caretaker capacity this season. The former BV Borussia Dortmund coach replaced Holger Fach on a temporary basis at the end of October and surprisingly won his only match in charge against eventual champions FC Bayern München.

Survival assured
Köppel, Mönchengladbach's reserve team coach, was called on again when Dick Advocaat resigned on 18 April, since when the five-time German champions are undefeated in four matches without conceding a goal, winning their battle against relegation in the process.

'Dream come true'
"It is a dream come true for me," Köppel said. "I was very happy coaching the Under-21s here but I have really enjoyed being in charge of the senior team in the last few weeks and I am delighted with the contract. Now we must concentrate on building a good side and playing good football next season."

Leverkusen test
Köppel's first match as full-time coach of Mönchengladbach is his side's final game of a turbulent season away to Bayer 04 Leverkusen on Saturday.