Success in World Cup is key to Klinsmann future

BERLIN, June 5 (Reuters) Juergen Klinsmann will only consider staying on as Germany coach beyond the World Cup if the hosts have a successful tournament.

''The yardstick is success,'' Klinsmann said at a news conference today, four days before Germany play the opening match of the World Cup against Costa Rica. ''It all depends on whether we reap the rewards or not.

''I can well imagine hanging on for two or even four years after the World Cup. It's a privileged position.

''The philosophy we have here is forward thinking. It's enabled us to play fast-paced, aggressive football but we're on a learning curve and we'll see where we are at the World Cup.

It's all down to how Germany perform.'' He did not elaborate on what success constituted.

Klinsmann had no coaching experience when he took over from Rudi Voeller in the wake of Germany's first round exit at Euro 2004.

He has been roundly criticised in Germany for refusing to move back home from his California base and his personal situation will clearly have a bearing on the decision about staying on for the Euro 2008 qualifiers.

''There is a family thing as well,'' he said. ''I'd have to discuss it with my wife.'' REUTERS PM PC1758