Head coach Roux aiming low at World Judo Championships

By George Scott, Sportsbeat

BRITISH Judo head coach Patrick Roux has played down expectations ahead of this week's World Championships in Rotterdam.

EARLY DAYS: Patrick Roux is playing down the chances of a British squad which includes former world silver medallist Peter Cousins

Roux was appointed after a strong team littered with world and European medallists failed to deliver in Beijing - a second disappointing Olympics in succession.

The Frenchman - who finished fifth at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul - read the riot act to British judoka when he took over the reins and promised to make sweeping changes.

But Roux insists it is too early to expect anything from the squad which includes Euan Burton and Peter Cousins - both of whom captured medals at the 2007 World Championships.  

"At the moment we are only in a foundation period, which means the World Championships is only part of the evaluation," said Roux.

"It's very difficult to expect any results at this stage, what we will try to do is set up the best conditions for the players and they have had a good preparation period.

"They've got a good mindset and are happy to take the challenge but, to be honest, we haven't had long enough.

"The time I've had is too short to make a big difference for now - the team is doing well and a lot of things are improving but I expect some positive clues and results by the end of 2010.

"We have to assess everything consistently and regularly but what is important is that we have the right group of players.

"For now, it's difficult to expect players to come from a domestic level or ‘B' tournament to start winning at a major championship immediately."

Roux is a man with a flair for philosophy but his plans for a revolution at British Judo's new high performance institute in Dartford are far simpler.

And the former world and European medallist revealed he is working towards a greater goal.

"I am working more with a combination long-term objectives and short-term objectives - that means that we will have long periods where we are constantly making improvements rather than getting results," added Roux.

"You cannot expect things to happen overnight and the first thing I have to do is set up a four year plan.

"I am here to prepare for the future and not just pick a group of players for this competition."