/ 26 June 2008

Igesund eyes coaching job in Austria

Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Gordon Igesund is eyeing a possible coaching job in the Austrian first division.

Igesund, who has won domestic league titles with four clubs — Downs, Santos, Manning Rangers and Orlando Pirates — confirmed on Thursday that he is keen to return to Austria, which he says will give him a new challenge. He played in Austria for six years.

”I turned down two coaching jobs in the Premier Soccer League [PSL] as I felt that I would prefer at this stage to coach overseas,” said Igesund. ”After winning four PSL titles and many knockout trophies, I have little left to prove in South Africa. Coaching in Austria would be a new and exciting challenge for me.”

The language would be no problem for Igesund, who speaks fluent German.

Igesund confirmed that he is considering an offer from an unnamed Austrian club.

”Nothing will happen until after the Euro 2008 final,” he said. ”My business manager is dealing with the club and I will take it from there after Euro.

”But I am not in any hurry. I have enjoyed my rest since I left Sundowns [earlier this year] and I am in no hurry to get back to work.

”But if a job offer came from Austria I would be keen as I enjoyed playing there and know the country and culture. It would be another step in my coaching career. But if this offer does not materialise, then I am not going to worry as something will crop up. Coaching jobs usually do.” — Sapa