Domenech to stay as France coach

Raymond Domenech has been told his job as France coach is safe despite the country's stuttering start to qualifying for the 2010 World Cup.

With France winning only one of their opening three qualifying matches after a disastrous Euro 2008 campaign, Domenech's position had been in doubt.

But French Football Federation chief Jean-Pierre Escalettes insisted Domenech retained their confidence.

"Raymond Domenech will remain in charge until 2010," he said.

At Euro 2008, France picked up just one point and finished bottom of their group as they were eliminated.

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And a defeat to Austria in their opening qualifying match for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa heaped more pressure on Domenech.

However, they rallied to beat Serbia in their next match and fought back from two goals down to earn a point in Romania on Saturday. They also came from a goal down to beat Tunisia 3-1 in a friendly on Thursday.

The support of senior players including Thierry Henry, who scored twice against Tunisia, and Franck Ribery is also thought to have strengthened the 56-year-old's position.

Domenech was initially given a vote of confidence after Euro 2008, though it was thought he had to win five points from the opening three qualification matches to remain in the post.

France, who sit fourth in the Group Seven table with four points, do not have an international scheduled until their qualifier in Lithuania next March.