Roberto Mancini offered Nigeria job

Roberto Mancini offered Nigeria job

Roberto Mancini says he is willing to coach Nigeria after receiving an unofficial approach for the post.

The former Inter Milan boss says he was asked about his interest in the job should the position become available.

The Italian said he would negotiate a deal with the Nigerian FA if they were serious about their interest.

Mancini told La Gazzetta dello Sport: "I was asked about my willingness to take over in an unofficial way and I said I was willing because the prospect of an African Nations Cup and a World Cup appeal to me.

"Nigeria is rich with excellent players who are not well known. If they really want me, I'll sit down and negotiate."

Nigeria are currently managed by Shaibu Amodu but are believed to be interested in a foreign coach after the Super Eagles qualified for the World Cup finals in unconvincing fashion.

Nigeria had to beat Kenya in their final qualifying match and hope Mozambique defeated Tunisia to progress to the finals.

A brace from Obafemi Martins and a Yakubu Aiyegbeni goal gave Nigeria a 3-2 win, while Mozambique ran out 1-0 winners.

Amodu's side were placed alongside Argentina, South Korea and Greece in Group B for the finals in South Africa and Mancini could be in line for a return to management after been sacked by Inter in May 2008.

He led the Italian giants to a third consecutive Serie A title before losing his job and opted to take a year away from management.

But the 45-year-old said: "Since July the decision to rest off has no longer been mine."

He added that he would consider taking Marcello Lippi's post should the Italy manager step down after the World Cup.