Reid Rejects Iran

GOAL – According to reports in Asia, former Sunderland, Manchester City and Leeds United boss Peter Reid has turned down an offer to take over the Iranian national team.

The ex-Everton and England midfielder told the Asian Football Confederation’s official homepage that while he thought a three-year contract with Team Melli was a tempting prospect, he decided to say no.

Reid he did not give any reasons for his refusal.

"It’s international football and they’ve got some decent players around Europe," the 51-year-old told Asia's governing body.

"Obviously I know Andranik (Teymourian) at Bolton and I like (Javad) Nekounam at Osasuna."

Since leaving Coventry City in 2005, Reid has become a FIFA-registered agent and is currently working for Singapore TV.

Iran is looking to install a new coach before qualification for the 2010 World Cup starts in February.

The West Asians have also been linked to Winfried Schaefer who took Cameroon to the 2002 World Cup.