Sven Goran Eriksson cools Fulham talk

Fulham's hopes of luring Sven Goran Eriksson to Craven Cottage could be in jeopardy after the Swede revealed he is considering an offer to extend his contract as Ivory Coast manager.

The former England boss is reported to be one of a number of high-profile names on the shortlist for the Fulham job, which was vacated by Roy Hodgson who left to join Liverpool a fortnight ago.

Eriksson, who has considerable international experience having led England at three major tournaments, took over as Elephants boss on a short-term contract before the World Cup.

Eriksson failed to guide the team through a difficult group in South Africa but it seems they are keen for the 62-year-old to stay on until the next World Cup in Brazil.

"They (Ivory Coast) were really pleased and I guess that I can stay on if I want to," Eriksson told Swedish broadcaster SVT. "If so, it will be for four years until the next World Cup finals.

"I'll make up my mind in a week or so. I have to do it soon since there are friendlies in August and qualifications for the Africa Cup of Nations in September and October."

Switzerland manager Ottmar Hitzfeld and United States boss Bob Bradley are also thought to be on Fulham's wishlist as they look for a manager with proven experience to succeed Hodgson, who guided the Londoners to the Europa League final last year.

Eriksson's relationship with Cottagers chief executive Alistair Mackintosh, who he used to work with at Manchester City, could work to his advantage but he says he is in the dark over the claims he is in line to take over at the west London club.

"I do not know, honestly. I do not think Fulham have decided what they want to do," said Eriksson.