Koeman to stay at Ajax until 2006
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Koeman steered Ajax to a domestic double in 2002.
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AMSTERDAM, Netherlands -- Ronald Koeman will stay on as Ajax coach despite his side's early elimination from European competition, the Dutch club said on Friday.
Ajax, Champions League quarterfinalists last season, finished bottom of their group after losing 2-1 to Belgian side Club Bruges, missing out on the consolation of a UEFA Cup spot.
But Ajax announced that Koeman had signed a two-year contract extension, running until 2006.
"Ajax and Ronald Koeman have expressed faith in one another and extended their mutual contract until July 1 2006," a statement on Ajax's Web site said.
Koeman has earned a reputation as one of Europe's most promising coaches since taking charge at Ajax two years ago and was targeted by former club Barcelona in the summer.
In 2002 he steered the club to the league and cup double, and Ajax currently lead the Dutch first division.