Hartson targets Wales manager's job

John Hartson has confirmed his interest in taking over as Wales manager – and has changed his mind on the possibility of working with rival candidate Raymond Verheijen.

The position became vacant after the death of Gary Speed in November and Verheijen, who served as his assistant, has claimed it was Speed's wish for him and fellow coach Osian Roberts to take over the side.

Hartson initially said that it was an “absolute disgrace” for Verheijen to make that claim but last night backtracked. “Of course I would work with Raymond and the current regime if that's what it meant for me to manage my country,” he said.