Concern over Iran coachless soccer team

PTV –Iranian football star Mahdi Mahdavikia voices concern over the future of Iran's national team which has been without a coach for months.

In an interview with Iran Sports Press website, the Eintracht Frankfurt player said the Iranian Football Federation (IFF) should appoint a head coach for the national team as soon as possible as 'there is little time left to our World Cup qualifier games'.

"I didn't think finding a coach for Iran would be this hard," Mahdavikia said, adding that playing friendly games will be necessary for reaching full preparation ahead of the qualifier matches, which will start in February.

"I have heard European coaches are to be considered, but more important is for this appointment to take place as soon as possible," said Iran national team's captain.

Iran will play Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, and Syria in group five of the third qualifying round for the 2010 World Cup. Iran's first match will be on February 6th against Syria in Tehran.