Houllier talking to Aussies

Current Australia manager Guus Hiddink will step down after the World Cup and former Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier, who led the Reds to the League Cup, FA Cup and UEFA Cup treble in 2001, is being touted as his successor.

"Talks are continuing with Gerard Houllier, as they are with a number of interested parties," said Australia football federation chief John O'Neill.

"We don't want anything to distract from what is happening on the pitch."