Former France coach Roger Lemerre takes charge of Tunisia for the first time when they play Egypt on Wednesday.

Lemerre was sacked by France after the reigning champions were eliminated from the World Cup in Korea and Japan at the group stages.

He is determined to succeed in his new role - especially with Tunisia the host country for the 2004 African Nations Cup - but knows he faces a tough assignment.

"The African Nations Cup is as much a challenge for the Tunisian national team as it is for me," said Lemerre.

Lemerre is already introducing a more professional approach.

The 61-year-old wants to expand the Tunisian league from 12 to 16 clubs, to increase the amount of football played.

And he has been promised full support from the Tunisian football federation, who are determined to provide "all the necessary conditions to ensure success."

Tunisia qualified for the World Cup finals but finished last in their group, gaining just a single point.