I am determined to help the club return to its place amongst the elite Jacques Santini

Santini will still mastermind France's campaign to defend their title at the European Championship in Portugal.

But the 52-year-old Frenchman will join the London club when his contract expires at the end of the tournament.

"I am an ambitious man and it has always been a dream of mine to coach a big English club in the most exciting league in the world," said Santini.

"I am delighted to get the opportunity to join Tottenham.

"They are a very big club, with a wonderful history and great traditions.

SANTINI FACTFILE 1952: Born in Delle, France 1976: Plays for St Etienne in European Cup final 1983: Starts management career at CA Lisieux 1985: Takes over at Toulouse 2002: Wins French title with Olympique Lyonnais 2003: Guides France to Euro 2004 finals

"Daniel Levy (chairman) and Frank Arnesen (sports director) have outlined their vision and I share their ambitions.

"I am determined to help the club return to its place amongst the elite," he added.

Spurs finished 14th in the Premiership and spent 10 months looking for a new coach after dismissing Glenn Hoddle six games into the season.

Levy told BBC Five Live he was delighted to have appointed a coach of such high calibre.

"We haven't had success for such a long time. It's a credit to Tottenham we can attract this type of manager," he said.

All the players and fans will be very excited Spurs captain Jamie Redknapp More reaction

"I said some time ago that we would make the right appointment - a big name to take the club forward.

"Jacques has been credited with developing young players and giving players special attention.

"He also has a determination to be successful in England."

Arnesen, who will take over from departed director of football David Pleat on 1 July, also welcomed Santini's arrival.

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"Jacques has a wealth of experience both as a player and as a coach.

"He has won honours at both national and international level and his reputation in Europe and among other respected figures in the game is excellent.

"In my opinion he was by far and away the best candidate shortlisted for the position and I am very happy that we have succeeded in bringing him to the club."

Santini's French side are being tipped as favourites to win Euro 2004, which begins on 12 June.