Peter Reid is expected to become the new manager of the Thai national team, although he insists he has not yet signed a contract.

Reid, who has never coached at international level, has been out of football since leaving his role as Coventry City manager in January 2005 and admitted since then it had been difficult for him to find work in England.

The former Leeds United manager has reportedly agreed terms with the Thailand FA and his contract will be formally signed next week. Reid is believed to have been offered a long-term contract, which would see him attempt to guide the team to qualifying for the 2014 World Cup.

"My agent is going over there next week hopefully to finalise things but nothing's been signed at the moment" the 52-year-old said.

Before accepting the Thai opportunity, the former England midfielder had been offered the role of manager of Iran's national team, which he rejected for "personal reasons".

Thailand failed to reach the final stage of Asian qualifying for the 2010 World Cup and Charnwit Polcheewin, their coach at the time, resigned following the campaign.

"This one does interest me. It's good for the CV and hopefully i can get them to the next World Cup because they failed in the pre-qualifying for this one" Reid said. Worawi Makudi, the Thai football president, has spoken of Thailand's future aspirations and how Reid fits into their plans.

"We can't afford to waste time. We have the talent and can go far, if shown the right way, and Peter [Reid] can do that."

Makudi has also revealed that Thaksin Shinawatra, the Thai billionaire and current owner of Reid's old club Manchester City, will help with the financial side of Reid's appointment.

"Thaksin loves football, he loves his country and he has offered to help us, with anything."

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