Tony Popovic Adelaide United v Western Sydney Wanderers A-League 01052016

Popovic: I didn't get a call for Socceroos coaching job

Many thought Tony Popovic was a contender for the vacant Australian coaching gig, but the man himself has revealed he didn't even receive a call about the job.

Speculation was rife for months on who would replace Ange Postecoglou, before Football Federation Australia decided to appoint Bert Van Marwijk for the World Cup and Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold for the long-term.

Popovic was believed to be in consideration for the role in but admits there was never a conversation with the FFA about the Socceroos.

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He also believes the governing body made the right decision to appoint an Australian in the role permanently.

"I didn't get a call. For whatever reason I didn't call for the Socceroos job but you never say no to the Socceroos or at least a conversation," Popovic said on Fox Sports' A-League Hour

"I'm sure Graham [Arnold] when he gets his chance after the World Cup will do a fantastic job and do it with pride as Ange [Postecoglou] did as well.

Graham Arnold Sydney FCGetty Images

"It's a different situation now, obviously someone's come in for the short term with the Socceroos, and hopefully we get the results there but moving forward I think it's good that an Australian has the job."

Popovic has been without a coaching job since being sacked by Turkish side Karabukspor after only two-and-half-months.

He has been linked with a return to the Western Sydney Wanderers, with current coach Josep Gombau speculated to be under pressure after an inconsistent campaign.

However an opportunity is yet to present itself and the 44-year-old is hoping one comes in the period after the World Cup.

"For myself, coaching is not something you can plan out on where you'll go... it depends on opportunities," Popovic said.

"(It's important) where those opportunities will be and whether you are suited to that club and the club is suited to you.

"Hopefully something will come up in the next couple months and I can start a pre-season somewhere."

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