SYDNEY, July 3: Australia are continuing talks with Gerard Houllier about the possibility of the Frenchman replacing Guus Hiddink as the Socceroos' next head coach. However a Football Federation of Australia (FFA) spokesman said media reports that Houllier had already signed a contract were incorrect.

“Contrary to media reports, the FFA has not signed an agreement with Gerard Houllier for the position of head coach,” a statement released on Monday read.

“Talks regarding the Australian head coach position are continuing with a number of candidates, including Gerard Houllier.”

FFA officials have made no secret of the fact Houllier is at the top of their list of candidates to replace Hiddink, who accepted a job to coach Russia after taking Australia to the second round of the World Cup last month.—Reuters