Scolari says he wants to stay on with Portugal

LISBON, July 9 (Reuters) Portugal's Brazilian-born coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said today he wanted to stay in the job, Portuguese news agency Lusa reported.

''I want to stay, yes,'' Scolari said, according to Lusa, after the return of the Portugal side from Germany today.

Portugal lost 3-1 to Germany in the match to decide the third spot in the World Cup on Saturday.

''I have a marvellous squad, it is a situation to be studied.

As of Wednesday or Thursday we will talk,'' Scolari said.

Scolari, known as 'Big Phil', has been hailed as a national hero in Portugal for taking the side to the final of Euro 2004 at home and for leading the team into the final four in the World Cup this year.

REUTERS RAI0237