CHRIS COLEMAN has emerged as the clear frontrunner to take over as Wales manager and his appointment could be confirmed in time for him to take charge against Costa Rica in the memorial game for Gary Speed at the end of next month.

Coleman is trying to resolve a contractual dispute with Larissa, after he resigned from his post last weekend after becoming exasperated with the financial problems at the Greek club. The former Fulham manager has strong grounds to claim his contract was breached because of the late payment of wages and other outstanding financial issues.

The situation is expected to be sorted out in the coming days, after which the Football Association of Wales would be in a position to approach Coleman and begin the delicate task of filling a role that became vacant in tragic circumstances, when Speed’s body was found in the garage of his home in November.

Coleman was close to getting the job a little more than 12 months ago only to lose out to Speed, his former Wales team-mate and someone he regarded as one of his closest friends in football. He said, although he would accept the job if offered, he feels as though he is in a highly sensitive position. He is aware maintaining the run of results Speed presided over will present a major challenge if appointed, although another big obstacle would be keeping the players on side if he changes the backroom staff.

GuardianService