Iran coach ponders new job after World Cup

FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany, June 8: Iran coach Branko Ivankovic is unlikely to renew his contract when it runs out shortly after the World Cup, he told Reuters today.

''Two months after the World Cup my contract will finish and it's normal that I have to think about a new job,'' he said.

''Of course, if we reach the second stage, they (Iran's FA) will try to keep me on but we will see what happens.'' Ivankovic would prefer a job with a club side rather than a national team since that would give him a whole season to help them improve rather than focusing on one match at a time.

He has been in contact with teams in East Asia, Europe and West Asia but has not yet made up his mind.

''If I had to make the final decision (tomorrow) then maybe (leaving) would not be a bad decision,'' Ivankovic said.

The Croatian, who has been Iran coach for four years, has become a national hero after leading them to victory in the 2002 Asian Games but the media have raised doubts about his tactics.

''The criticism is okay. This is normal and this is my job. But sometimes it can get too much,'' Ivankovic said.

Earlier today, a team spokesman said the FA would be keen to keep Ivankovic if Iran have have a 'good result' at the World Cup.

Ivankovic said it was tragic that Mexican goalkeeper Oswaldo Sanches had to return home after the death of his father and would not play in the first match.

''It is a tragedy for him and his team. I really hope that he will come back to the team as soon as possible,'' he said.

Sanches's father, in his mid-50s, wa due to watch his son play in the finals.

''But maybe in this case they can put their heads together and this can help them,'' added Ivankovic.

Iran start off their World Cup campaign against Mexico on Sunday.

Portugal and Mexico are the favourites to progress from a group which also includes Angola.

REUTERS