Ivory Coast wants Hiddink for World Cup

(GSM) – Guus Hiddink could lead Ivory Coast at the World Cup before he takes over as Turkey coach.

Hiddink is still coach of the Russia national team and has already signed for Turkey, where his contract starts at August 1. He has a deal with the Russians until the end of June but Hiddink may be tempted by a chance to lead the Ivorians in South Africa.

Ivory Coast football association president Jacques Anouma told BBC Sport an approach has been made to Hiddink, and he is their main target.

“Guus is one of the people we have contacted about becoming coach,” said Anouma.

“Probably in the middle of next week something will be concluded.”

Ivory Coast sacked Vahid Halilhodzic after a disappointing African Nations Cup campaign and were directly linked with former Chelsea boss Hiddink who already received a phone call from Didier Drogba, the Chelsea striker who wants his former coach to lead his country at the World Cup.

However, the Dutch tactician is not the only coach who has been linked with the Elephants.

Sven-Goran Eriksson was in the crowd to watch the game and has also been linked with the job, as he was with the Nigeria vacancy which was filled last week by his fellow Swede Lars Lagerback.

Anouma said he has not approached Eriksson.

“Sven has not been contacted but there were a lot of coaches at Loftus Road for the match and some have contacted me,” added Anouma.

“Of the three or four in contention to become the next coach, Guus is the person we want but we are still talking to him.

“Talks are ongoing but nothing has been decided.”