FORMER Hereford United boss John Layton is set to add his expertise to the Pakistan national squad's bid for a place in the finals of the 2002 World Cup, writes Adam Workman.

Hereford-born Layton, who is currently the national director of soccer coaching in Pakistan, is likely to coach the squad alongside new manager David Burns.

Layton has already managed the national team, between February and April of this year, when ex-Cardiff City manager Eddie May, who was due to take charge, failed to take up his position.

The spell included the qualifying rounds of the Asian Cup, the equivalent of the European Championships, which were held in Qatar.

Pakistan failed to reach the finals of the Asian Cup, but now face Sri Lanka, Lebanon and group favourites Thailand in their efforts to qualify for the World Cup in Japan and Korea in two years time.

Layton will continue to work with Pakistan's under-16 and under-19 national teams, his main task as director of coaching, in preparation for their respective Asian tournaments.

Layton said: "It's been a good experience and it's very hot out there. There are no junior or senior leagues in Pakistan - they just play in tournaments - but players are very respectful and keen to learn."

Layton, whose father John also played for Hereford United, made over 200 football league appearances for the Bulls and helped them to the Third Division championship 1975-76.

He returned to the club to help in the running of their youth team and was promoted to assistant manager. He took over as manager from Nove-mber 1994-July 1995.