finally concluded with confirmation that Burkhard Ziese of Germany has been given the job and is expected to arrive in Bermuda within the next two months.

Ziese -- a highly-respected FIFA official with an impressive track record all over the world -- signed a three-year contract with the BFA and everyone is now awaiting approval from the immigration department before the German can move to Bermuda.

The BFA had hoped to have the position filled by October 1 -- prior to the start of the soccer season -- but Ziese was difficult to contact because he was conducting a FIFA course in Baghdad, Iraq.

In fact, he was so out of touch, that for almost three months the BFA had to spend a large part of the negotiating process with Ziese's wife, who will accompany her husband to Bermuda. The couple have two grown sons who will remain in Germany.

"He has very high qualities,'' BFA president Charlie Marshall said last night.

Suggesting that everything about Ziese oozes intensity, Marshall added: "And he brings a successful track record in coaching, teaching and in areas of discipline.'' The Royal Gazette first reported that a German coach had the inside track for the job in August. Coaches from such diverse countries as England, France, Brazil, Canada, New Zealand and South America had applied for the post.

Ziese soon became prominent on a shortlist of candidates which was believed to include Brazilian coach Joao Castral.

The BFA first met with Ziese this summer, interviewed by Carlton Dill and Jonathan Beard, two members of the coaching committee.

Marshall said that Ziese will have a heavy workload -- one that will be stretched like silly putty -- when he arrives on the island, duties ranging from putting together programmes for primary and secondary schools as well as assisting all of Bermuda's clubs, including at the national level.

He will also develop a computer programme so that the BFA will be able to keep track of its players.

"He'll have a significant role in the community,'' said Marshall.

The BFA has also left the door open for Ziese to continue his stints with FIFA, but "that will be decided by the Association depending on our requirements at that point in time,'' added Marshall.