World Football

Former Japan coach Osim ponders Sapporo role

10:02 GMT, Thu 23 Oct 2008
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TOKYO, Oct 23 (Reuters) - Former Japan coach Ivica Osim is considering an offer to become technical director of J-League club Consadole Sapporo, local media reported on Thursday.

The 67-year-old, who less than a year ago suffered a severe stroke and fell into a coma, could join forces with son Amar, who would take over as manager.

"I am aware that Sapporo would like to make Amar their manager," Osim told Japan's Nikkan Sports daily, refusing to rule out a role for himself at the club.

"As for me being technical director, I think there are too many so-called directors in football. The most important thing is to improve the team through good training and creating a good atmosphere. That's more important than a job title."

The Bosnian has all but ruled out a return to management after recovering from his illness, admitting it would be "too risky" on arriving in Japan on Wednesday for a visit.

Sapporo officials told Reuters there had been no formal decision on who would be in charge next season after the side's relegation from the first division this year.

However, Japanese media reported that Consadole were preparing to make an offer to bring the father and son team to Japan's northern island of Hokkaido.

Osim was replaced as Japan coach by Takeshi Okada last December while still in hospital but holds an advisory role with the Japan Football Association.

He was unable to watch Japan's penalty shootout against Australia in last year's Asian Cup quarter-finals, disappearing down the tunnel after extra time.

He joked after the match that he had feared he would have a heart attack and a few months later suffered a serious stroke at his Japan home while watching soccer on television.

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