FORMER Blackburn defender Stig Inge Bjornebye is on the world stage after being appointed Norway's assistant coach.

Bjornebye, who made over 60 appearances for Rovers, was forced to retire from football earlier this year following a horrific eye injury.

The defender, 34 tomorrow, was contemplating scouting back in his homeland.

But Bjornebye has now been persuaded to assist former Rosenborg coach Aage Hareide as Norway's new-look management team look ahead to the qualification campaign for the 2006 World Cup, being held in Germany.