Coleman set for talks over Wales job

Chris Coleman has confirmed he will meet the Football Association of Wales to discuss the vacant manager’s position.

The 41-year-old Welshman left Greek side Larrisa last week and has been strongly linked to the job since Gary Speed’s death in November.

It is thought that Coleman is one of a number of candidates for the job as the FAW aims to make an appointment inside the next week.

“I’ll meet the FAW this week to discuss the situation,” he told Sky Sports.

“It is a very sensitive situation so if I am offered the job and I accept it I’ll have mixed emotions.”

Coleman was thought to be in the running to take over the national team before Speed was appointed in December 2010 and admits it would be hard to turn down the job.

“I don’t think you turn (Wales) down so the conversation will take place this week and we’ll see what happens,” he said.

“Ideally Speed would still be sitting here doing a great job for our country.”

Coleman added that he would be willing to work the existing staff.

“If it ain’t broke, you don’t fix it,” he said.

Ryan Giggs had been tipped by many to take over but Sir Alex Ferguson has offered him a new contract at Manchester United.

John Hartson has also stated his desire to take over, but his lack of managerial experience is thought to have counted against him, although he believes Coleman will be a success in the job.

“The word on the street we’re all hearing is that he (Coleman) will be appointed this week and good luck to him,” said Hartson.

“He’s vastly experienced – he’s managed in the Premier League, he’s managed in Spain, he’s managed in Greece and he’s had a short spell in Coventry.”

“He’s a great fella, a Swansea boy like myself. I really hope he does well and carries on the good work that Gary has already put down there.”

Wales’ next fixture is a friendly against Costa Rica in Cardiff on February 29, a match organised as a memorial to Speed.