VIENNA (AFP) - Former Czech Republic boss Karel Bruckner underlined his 2010 World Cup ambitions for Austria as he was officially unveiled on Monday as their new coach.

Bruckner, 68, explained that his contract would run until the end of the qualifying period for the World Cup in the autumn of 2009 and would be automatically extended if they book their place.

He added that former Austrian international Andreas Herzog, 39, would remain in his post as deputy coach.

Bruckner quit his post with the Czech Republic after their first round exit from last month's European championships.

He takes over from Austrian Josef Hickersberger, who also stepped aside after his side fell in the first round of Euro 2008.

Bruckner will take charge of his first game on August 20 when Austria play a friendly against Italy in Nice, France.

But his main focus will be on their first World Cup qualifier against France on September 6 in Vienna.

Bruckner coached the Czech Republic from 2001 to 2008, helping them to the semi-finals of the 2004 European championships in Portugal.