Eriksson emerges as rival to Maradona for Iraq job

EXCLUSIVE
by Sebastian Garcia

Hernan Tofoni of Wold Eleven, the organisation that handles Diego Maradonna's affairs, says that Sven-Goran Eriksson is among the list of contenders for the Iraq coaching role.

The company had previously told Goal.com that the Argentine legend was open to taking up the vacant post, but it has now emerged he could face competition from the former England and Mexico boss.

"What we know for certain is that the president of the IFA [Najeh Al Obaidi] is who is taking care of the negotiations," Tofoni told Goal.com.

"We also know that Eriksson is also a candidate for them. The president wants Diego, but we have to respect any decision they may make."

The trainer's representative says that although his client is the FA's president's favourite for the position, opposition within the FA might delay the final decision for a bit, however, it is expected to be announced soon.

"Maybe other directors have a different view on these matters or other opinions and we have to respect that."

"The president asked us to give him a few days to make a decision. He has asked us to let this weekend go by."