MADRID, June 30: Luis Aragones will continue as Spain coach until Euro 2008.

“The (Spanish Football) Federation were pleased with my work and this motivated me to extend my contract,” Aragones said on Friday.

The 67-year-old had hinted he would step down after his team lost 3-1 to France in the second round of the World Cup on Tuesday.

Before the competition he said he would quit if Spain did not reach the semi-finals.

“What I said before the tournament I would say again in the future but it is the federation who have the final word,” said Aragones.

“I told them I was going to leave but they have convinced me they appreciate what I have done and want me to continue.”

The defeat by France was Aragones's first in 26 matches since taking over from Inaki Saez after Spain's first-round exit at Euro 2004.

“The fans should know I am continuing because I want to, and because I want to win a major event. I want to get my revenge in Euro 2008,” Aragones said.

“I don't think we were inferior to anyone at the World Cup, bar some small details, and I will carry on working as I have been doing to improve every aspect.”

Federation secretary general Jorge Perez said: “We didn't ask him to make us champions.

“We wanted hard work, dedication and commitment and this is what we get from him. This is more important than individual results.”—Reuters