Bob Bradley extends stay as US coach, ends Aston Villa rumours
United States men’s national team head coach Bob Bradley has signed a four-year extension to his contract.
As a result, he has killed off rumours linking him with the vacant manager’s job as English Premier League side Aston Villa after telling reporters last week that he would be “honoured” to hold talks over the position vacated by Martin O’Neill. However, he will guide the US through their 2014 FIFA World Cup campaign.
'Numerous achievements'
A statement issued by US Soccer on their official website says that: “U.S. Soccer has agreed to a contract extension with U.S. Men's National Team head coach Bob Bradley. The agreement with Bradley, who guided the U.S. team to numerous achievements including finishing in first place in their group at the 2010 FIFA World Cup for the first time in 80 years, will keep him at the helm through the end of 2014.”
Bradley’s agent told reporters that: “Bob is honoured to be the US coach. He is very happy.”
The coach has been in charge of the US national side since taking over from Bruce Arena after the 2006 FIFA World Cup. The 52-year-old led his team to the round of 16 at the 2010 FIFA World Cup after drawing with England and Slovenia and beating Algeria, but they lost 2-1 to Ghana. His contract had been due to run out at the end of the year before he decided to extend his stay.
Cup winner
Bradley has won the 2007 CONCACAF Gold Cup and led the US to the finals of the 2009 Gold Cup and 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.
O’Neill left the Villa job just days before the start of the EPL campaign and reserve team coach Kevin MacDonald was named as caretaker manager. Bradley had been touted as the favourite for the job but Villa owner Randy Lerner may now turn his attention to former Manchester City and England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson or ex-Villa captain and Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate, both of whom have been linked with the role.
Tags: