Zico set for Japan job
Former Brazilian star Zico is reportedly leading the chase to become the next coach of World Cup co-hosts Japan.
The 49-year-old has begun negotiations with the Japan Football Association over a possible four-year contract that would see him lead the national side to the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
A Japan Football Association spokesman declined to comment, saying no decision on a new coach had been reached.
Zico, a member of Brazil's 1978, 1982 and 1986 World Cup sides, is the technical director of J-League club Kashima Antlers, where he has played and coached since 1993.
He was also technical coordinator for the Brazilian team at the 1998 World Cup in France during a leave of absence from Kashima.
The JFA has been looking for a successor to Frenchman Philippe Troussier, who surprised fans worldwide when he led Japan to the second round last month at the World Cup finals.
Troussier had said he would not renew his contract after the World Cup. He officially resigned after his team were knocked out by Turkey.
