Thailand lines up Robson as new coach

Thailand’s Football Association said Friday it expected former England captain Bryan Robson to take up an offer to replace Peter Reid as coach of the national team.

Association chairman Worawi Makudi said on the body’s official website that he had contacted the former Manchester United skipper and is waiting for a reply.

“We have already contacted Robson. He seems interested and it is likely that Robson will accept our offer,” Worawi was quoted as saying on the web site.

“I expect we will know the final answer no later than next week and if he agrees Robson will travel to Thailand by October,” Worawi said.

Former Sunderland and Manchester City boss Reid’s contract as Thailand’s national coach was terminated on Wednesday after just a year.

Reid said earlier this week that he was sad to be leaving Thailand but cannot wait to start work again in the Premier League after being appointed number two at Stoke City.

Worawi rejected criticisms that Robson had had no major success during his time as manager at clubs including Middlesbrough and most recently Sheffield United.

“The Thai football team is stronger than before, so the coach does not have to work closely with players but must map out tactics and lead the team,” he said.