Rudi Voeller looked set to stay on as Germany head coach on a permanent basis after a meeting between officials of the German Football Association (DFB) and his Bayer Leverkusen club yesterday. German television channel ZDF reported that Bayer Leverkusen commercial manager Reiner Calmund had agreed to let Voeller, who was appointed caretaker coach last July, remain in the job after his contract expires on May 31st 2001. The deal still had to be ratified by the club's executive board, ZDF said.

Voeller said earlier yesterday he wanted s to carry on with the national team. "I make no secret of the fact that I would like to continue as head coach," he said.

The Scottish FA are to ask former Dundee United chairman Jim McLean to explain his actions during the recent alleged assault on BBC reporter John Barnes. McLean stepped down as Tannadice chairman following the 4-0 home defeat by Hearts after being angered by a question about the future of manager Alex Smith. McLean has subsequently been charged by Tayside police as a result of the incident.

Blackburn Rovers yesterday signed Mark Hughes on an initial contract of 18 months. The Wales manager and former international forward has joined from Everton on a free transfer.

Manchester City have signed versatile French defender Laurent Charvet from Newcastle for £1 million. Charvet (27) could make his debut for City at Arsenal on Saturday.