Hörmann steps into Loose shoes

Ralf Loose has been dismissed as coach of Liechtenstein and replaced by FC Vaduz coach Walter Hörmann.

Staying at Vaduz
The 42-year-old Austrian, who will continue in his role with Vaduz, will be in charge for Liechtenstein's remaining UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifiers. The Liechtenstein Football Association (LFV) will then decide on a long-term appointment.

Series of arguments
The decision to dismiss Loose, whose contract had eleven months to run, follows a series of arguments between the German coach and the association. LFV president Reinhard Walser said: "Loose was working against the interests of the Liechtenstein FA. His behaviour in public and towards the FA does not correspond to the attitude of a leading collaborator and so we have withdrawn our trust in him."

'Shocked and angry'
However, Liechtenstein captain Daniel Hasler said: "I am shocked and angry. Loose did not deserve to be sacked this way. He did a lot for football in Liechtenstein." Liechtenstein are bottom of EURO 2004™ Group 9, with one point from five games. Their next qualifier is against Turkey on 6 September.