Ziganda signs Osasuna deal

Ziganda took charge of Osasuna last summer after being promoted from the backroom staff to replace Javier Aguirre, who left to become the new coach at Atletico Madrid.

The 40-year-old has enjoyed a fine maiden campaign in charge at the Reyno de Navarra, leading Osasuna to a first-ever UEFA Cup semi-final and to the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey.

Osasuna have been less successful in the Primera Liga, where they currently 14th in the standings, but are virtually assured of avoiding relegation.

Ziganda was pleased with the backing shown by the club to him and his assistant Andoni Goikoetxea, saying: "We are delighted that the club have continued to count on us and we are going to continue giving everything for this club so the people can enjoy this team."

However, Ziganda was keen not to let talk of his future distract from the job at hand, which is keeping Osasuna in the Primera Liga.

Osasuna are at home to third-bottom Real Sociedad this weekend, knowing a draw will guarantee their top-flight status.

"First we have to secure our survival. It makes me shudder to talk about next season when we still need points now," said the former Osasuna and Athletic Bilbao player.

"I am only worried about the game against Real Sociedad. We still need a point to be mathematically sure of staying up."

SPORTING LIFE