Ivankovic to return to Tehran for talks

AFC - Iran coach Branko Ivankovic is set to return to Tehran in a week’s team to open negotiations with the football federation in the hope of getting his contract renewed.

Speaking exclusively to www.the-afc.com from Zagreb, the Croatian, whose contract expires on October 1, said: “I hope to continue as Iran national coach. It all depends on my negotiations with the Iran Football Federation.”

“The federation may hire another coach for the AFC Asian Cup 2007 qualifiers, who can continue till the next World Cup but I have no information about this.”

“Before the World Cup, I expected to continue despite the results of the team in Germany,” added Ivankovic, who had earlier announced that he would quit after the World Cup irrespective of the results.

The 52-year-old coach said he had received a few offers but was waiting for the outcome of the talks with the Iran Football Federation. “I have some offers but due to my contract with Iran, which expires in October, I am not able to negotiate with others.”

Asked on who would be the best successor to him, Ivankovic said: “It depends on the federation and the people as what kind of football they like. It’s always better to find the best coach of the world. They can start with the coaches who are free now. For example, hiring former England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson could be a good idea.”

He, however, blamed the media for creating a negative impression about him and the team. “I have no problem with the Iranian people and Iranian football. I have been there since the last five years. I don’t know why the people are angry but I think the media was responsible for this reaction.”