Olsen - Danish footballing legend (Allsport).
OLSEN THE AUTHOR OF DANISH SUCCESS
By Kirstie Lovewell, PA International
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Denmark's disastrous showing in Euro 2000 led to a shake-up of the national
team's management with Bo Johansson stepping down and Morten Olsen being
appointed the new coach.
Now, after a successful qualification into this summer's World Cup finals,
Olsen is keen to prove that his side can compete at the highest level.
Olsen, 52, has gained a wealth of experience from over 30 years in football.
He began his playing career in 1970 as a defender with Danish outfit B1901
before playing for Belgian sides Cercle Brugge, Molenbeek and Anderlecht.
He finally hung up his boots in 1989 after three seasons at Cologne in
Germany.
Olsen also made a name for himself as an international player. He made his
first appearance for Denmark against Norway in 1970 and went on to win 102 caps
for his country, playing in both the 1984 and 1988 European Championships and
the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.
His retirement at the age of 39 signalled the start of a coaching career which
began at Danish club Brondby.
He then went on to take charge at former club Koln, and also Ajax, before
taking his current role.
With just one loss in his first 15 games in charge, Olsen is now ready to take
his side to the finals along with Danish legend Michael Laudrup.
Denmark will face France, Senegal and Uruguay in the group stages and Olsen
knows his players will need to reproduce their best form if they wish to
progress further.
"France are favourites, but Senegal could spring a surprise," said Olsen.
"They are dangerous, have incredible individuals and are very attacking.
"Uruguay will be out for revenge even though it's some years since we beat
them at the World Cup in Mexico.
"They play differently to France and Senegal in that they're very
temperamental and forceful, but our players should be used to that from club
games.
"On paper you always say whether a group is hard or easy. Well this group is
hard. In a group like this everyone can beat everyone."
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