Aragones keen to take up Spain challenge

Real Mallorca boss Luis Aragones has thrown his hat into the ring as a possible candidate to succeed Inaki Saez as Spain coach.

"I'm really proud that people are talking about the possibility of taking over as the national team coach," the 65-year-old was quoted as saying. "I think my time has come and of course I want the job," said Aragones.

"I have to make it clear that I haven't been approached yet and there are other colleagues who also want the post, but I can't deny that I am really excited about the possibility of coaching the national side."

Aragones has emerged as the favourite to replace Saez who quit last week after intense media pressure forced him to rethink his decision to stay on.

Other possible candidates are former Villarreal coach Benito Floro, former Malaga boss Juande Ramos and Victor Fernandez, who left Real Betis at the end of last season.