offered a long-term contract at least as lucrative as the one signed by sacked German technical director Burkhard Ziese.

While Bermuda Football Association president Neville Tyrrell was yesterday unwilling to discuss specifics, sources revealed that the former professional striker would pocket at least $50,000 per annum -- the amount paid to Ziese who also received a generous expenses allowance.

"I will not say that he will be offered the same amount, but Best will be paid commensurate with his expertise and the requirements of the job,'' said Tyrrell.

"We do have an interim agreement with Mr. Best that will take us through the commitment of the Shell/Umbro Cup next month. We are still in the process of trying to get the necessary funds in total to cover the wages for the full-time post.'' Added Tyrrell: "We don't want to go into a situation unless we have full funds available for a contract for Best. Right now we have this short-term agreement and I hope that, probably around the middle to end part of March, we will come to some firm arrangement with him in regards to signing a long-term contract.'' A source involved in soccer administration said Best certainly would not be offered less than had been paid to Ziese.

"There has been no greater ambassador in soccer than Clyde Best. He has carried the Bermuda banner with grace and honour internationally for nearly two decades and has now returned to give something back to his country and our young people. He is a true role model for our youngsters,'' said the source on condition of anonymity.

While Best and former national coach Gary Darrell are preparing the team for the Shell/Umbro Cup, it's unlikely that a paid assistant post will be established for Darrell.

He has long advised the BFA that he has limited time to coach and would be concentrating on his carpet laying business and the BFA are believed to be looking at their other coaching resources to give assistance.

"Gary can't give any commitment, but we will be looking to give him some remuneration for the time he puts in right now. But we will probably use our own staff coaches for assistance like we have always done,'' said Tyrrell.

Champions Vasco will need to find their shooting boots as they meet Southampton Rangers in a rescheduled FA Cup third round match at PHC tonight, starting at 9.00.

The opening clash will be a Women's FA Cup game between Rude Girls and BAA Telecom, starting at 7.00.

Vasco struggled to beat lowly St. David's 1-0 in a First Division match on Sunday, although their front line should be reinforced this evening by the return from suspension of striker Dwight Basden.

Southampton are expected to have Janeiro Tucker back after a similar ban.