Ian Foster is expected to be appointed All Blacks head coach this afternoon

NZME understands New Zealand Rugby will announce Steve Hansen's long time assistant will be appointed on a two year deal.

Incoming Tall Blacks head coach Pero Cameron believes continuity is critical for the side to have a chance to qualify for next year's Olympics.

After eight years as an assistant coach, the former player has been appointed as Paul Henare's successor on a short term deal through to Tokyo.

Ross McMains has been retained as an assistant, and Cameron says that's important as they prepare for a last chance qualifying tournament in Serbia in June.

Chelsea and Liverpool have ensured a full representation of English sides in the last 16 of European football's Champions League.

The Blues have beaten Lille 2-1 at home to join Valencia in progressing from group H, with Ajax knocked out.

Liverpool earlier clinched top spot from group E after winning 2-nil at Salzburg, having headed into the match requiring a point to qualify.