FOLLOWING the acrimonious departure of Pierre Littbarski as their head coach, Sydney FC have confirmed that discussions with Terry Butcher about the vacancy are at an advanced stage.

Littbarski, the former German international, resigned after claiming he was offered a new contract on reduced terms, and immediately reiterated his interest in taking charge at Hearts.

Butcher has been linked with the Sydney job for a number of weeks, and the Motherwell manager yesterday admitted his interest in the post. He told BBC Scotland: "I am happy at Fir Park, but I would be interested in what they have to say."

Tim Parker, the A-League club's chief executive, stated that Butcher is the No1 candidate.

"We have a preferred candidate whom we are closest to signing . It's Terry Butcher, that I can confirm," Parker , told the Sydney Morning Herald. "There's been an ongoing discussion with Terry for a while, through our chairman. He's interested, which is very flattering."

Butcher was discussing next season's plans for Motherwell yesterday after the club announced a two-year shirt sponsorship deal with Anglian Home Improvements, but may be tempted by a new challenge after five years at Fir Park.

On a visit to Australia last summer to forge a relationship between Motherwell and Sorrento Soccer Club, the 47-year-old is understood to have made a good impression.

Littbarski criticised Sydney for showing him a lack of respect, and his agent said he would be interested in a move to Edinburgh. His agent, Tomas, Croth said: "Pierre has stated he would be very interested in talking to Hearts and he is now no longer coach at Sydney. He is in Tokyo just now on a break, but the Hearts job would be an exciting challenge."

Taken from the Scotsman