Berlin, April 3, IRNA - German coach Erich Rutemoeller said he would like to remain in charge of Iran's national football squad for the rest of the 2010 World Cup qualifying stage.

Rutemoeller (left) during Iran-Senegal friendly in Tehran

Talking to dpa on Friday, the 64-year-old former Bundesliga coach said while he could imagine staying in charge as interim coach, he believes the Iranian Football Federation was likely hiring an Iranian trainer.

"Should the federation turn to me, I would be immediately ready to train the team for the remaining three World Cup qualifiers," he said.

Rutemoeller temporarily replaced head coach Ali Daei after he was sacked following the national team's losing 1-2 to Saudi Arabia at Tehran's Azadi Stadium.

Iran faces an uphill battle to qualify for the World Cup after the shocking defeat against Saudi Arabia.

South Korea heads Group 2 with 11 points from five games, followed by North Korea and Saudi Arabia with 10 points from six matches and Iran with six from five.

The top two teams qualify directly for the World Cup, while the third-placed team goes through relegation.

"It will be difficult especially having to play in North and South Korea," Rutemoeller was quoted saying.

The German coach, who was formerly employed as the top coaching instructor for the German Football Federation (DFB), was in charge of Iran's team in Wednesday's 1-1 tie against Senegal in a friendly match.

Rutemoeller was initially serving as an advisor to Daei and announced he would also be prepared to continue this position, if asked to do so.

... Payvand News - 04/03/09 ... --