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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.” |
