Former Japan Coach Philippe Troussier is interested in taking over the national soccer team.

In an interview with Reuters Tuesday, the Frenchman, nicknamed the "white witch doctor" for his ability to improve teams quickly, said he is available and considering the position but wants a short-term deal.

The 50-year-old Troussier led Japan to the second round of the 2002 World Cup and has also coached Nigeria, South Africa, Cote d'Ivoire and Burkina Faso.

His most recent job was coach of Olympique Marseille but the French team fired him at the end of last season.

Reuters said his experience and record of turning teams around quickly could make him an attractive option for the Korea Football Association.

Troussier said he believes he can help the South Korean team at next year's finals, adding the squad's potential is very high given its 2002 performance.

In July, he declined to coach Nigeria because of knee surgery but said he will delay the operation if the KFA makes an offer.

Other candidates include Busan I'Park Coach Ian Porterfield, former assistant to Guus Hiddink Pim Verbeek, former Germany coaches Rudi Voeller and Berti Vogts and former England Coach Bobby Robson.