Houllier no sure thing for Socceroos job: FFA

Sydney:

Football Federation Australia has denied reports that Frenchman Gerard Houllier has been chosen to replace Guus Hiddink as coach of the Australian soccer team. The FFA released a statement to say Houllier was one of a number of candidates in its search for a replacement for Hiddink, who stepped down after leading Australia to the second round of the World Cup in Germany. "Contrary to media reports, the FFA has not signed an agreement with Gerard Houllier for the position of Head Coach of the Socceroos,'' an FFA spokesman said. "Talks regarding the Australian head coach position are continuing with a number of candidates, including Gerard Houllier,'' the federation said. England's Mail on Sunday newspaper reported last weekend that former Liverpool boss Houllier will take charge of the Australian team after seeing out his contract with Olympique Lyon. The FFA has indicated Houllier, who led Liverpool to the UEFA Cup, FA Cup and League Cup treble in 2000, will visit Australia at the end of the World Cup. Graham Arnold, Hiddink's former assistant, will act as caretaker coach until a new head coach is appointed. (AP)