Ivory Coast are in talks with Sven-Goran Eriksson about coaching the team during the 2010 World Cup in June.

The ex-England boss watched the Elephants' friendly 2-0 defeat by South Korea on Wednesday but the Ivorians denied contact with the Swede.

A statement on the Ivorian FA's website has now confirmed talks.

"We have had discussions with coach Sven-Goran Eriksson who showed his desire to lead the Ivorian team in the 2010 World Cup," the statement read.

Eriksson, whose last stint in management was at the helm of the Mexico team, left his position as director of football at Notts County last month.

The former Manchester City manager walked away from the role just seven months into a five-year contract following the club's takeover by Ray Trew.

Guus Hiddink is also in the frame to coach Ivory Coast at the World Cup in June, although the former Chelsea boss is contracted to the Russian Football Union until the end of June, and is then due to become manager of Turkey in August.

Ivory Coast sacked Vahid Halilhodzic after a disappointing African Cup of Nations campaign and were under the guidance of acting coach Kouadio Georges midweek.

Anouma has previously indicated Halilhodzic's successor will be appointed this week.

Ivory Coast will face Brazil, Portugal and North Korea in their World Cup group.

From: BBC