Bruno Metsu has transformed the fortunes of Senegal since his appointment as coach in November 2000.

The 43-year-old inherited a team short on confidence and struggling in their World Cup qualification group, which included Algeria, Egypt and Morocco.

But Metsu quickly reversed his team's fortunes and his time as manager has led to a period of unparalleled success for the national side.

Metsu's team also reached the final of this year's African Cup of Nations, losing to Cameroon in a dramatic penalty shoot out.

Senegalese Football Federation vice president Bounamar Gueye - the man who appointed Metsu - is delighted with his team's form since the Frenchman took over.

And Gueye is no doubt as to why Metsu has done so well.

"It is Bruno's capacity to talk to people that, along with the federation's president, managed to convince the main players to come and play."

After playing France in the World Cup's showcase opening fixture, Senegal will then face Denmark and Uruguay.

It is a tough group for a country competing in their first World Cup.

But - with less than eight weeks before the tournament begins - the mood is optimistic in Senegal.

"Senegal people love football very much and until Bruno arrived they were not happy with results," said Gueye.

"But under his rule Senegal has reached the summit of African football."