PARIS, Nov 20 — The contract of France coach Didier Deschamps has been extended through to 2016, the French Football Federation's president announced yesterday night.

Deschamps' existing deal had been due to expire after next year's World Cup, but Noel Le Graet confirmed in the wake of the win against Ukraine at the Stade de France which secured their place at the finals that he would be staying for an extra two years.

“Didier had my full confidence and he will continue with Les Bleus until Euro 2016,” Le Graet told press at the Stade de France.

Deschamps had hinted that he would step down if France failed to reach the World Cup, but yesterday's 3-0 win against Ukraine saw them reach the 2014 tournament in Brazil with a 3-2 aggregate victory in their decisive play-off.

He will now stay to lead the team into the 2016 Euros, which France will host. — AFP