Iran delays new coach appointment

Kafashian had earlier said that Iran's new coach would be announced not later than Tuesday; however, he said on Monday that a decision will be made 'within the next few days'.

Kafashian dismissed the recent reports that Javier Clemente still has the chance to steer Iran and stressed that the national team's coach will be one of the Iranian options already announced by the IFF.

He also rejected that the approval of the Physical Education Organization (PEO) is needed for appointing the national team's coach, adding that the IFF will independently make the final decision on the matter.

Afshin Qotbi has been reportedly appointed as Iran's new coach though the IFF has not confirmed it yet.

A poll conducted by Iran's national TV on Monday showed Qotbi was far more popular among supporters than his main rival Amir Qalenoei.

Iran plays its second 2010 World Cup Qualifying match against Kuwait on March 26. The first match against Syria on February 6 was a goalless draw.