Hughes future in doubt

Mark Hughes' future as Wales manager was in doubt today after it emerged that his country's Football Association have a shortlist of potential successors.

His team's qualification campaign for Euro 2004 ended in failure when Russia scored the only goal of their two-leg play-off last night in Cardiff.

It is Hughes' second unsuccessful attempt to take Wales to their first major finals since 1958 and the Football Association of Wales are thought to be considering replacements.

Fulham manager, and former international Chris Coleman, Wales captain Gary Speed and coach Eddie Niedzwiecki are said to be on the list.

Of the three, Coleman is the least likely to be interested but it will surprise many that Hughes may not be allowed to stay on until the end of his contract in 2006.

He has been linked with the manager's vacancy at Tottenham and the No2 position at Manchester United and the FAW may have drawn up their list in case he was lured away. Hughes said: "We'll sit down and talk about the situation. I'm contracted for another two years, but both the FAW and myself have to think about the direction we go in.

"I haven't done what I set out to do, which is to qualify for the finals of a major championship. That fact will perhaps mean people will have something to say about that. It's up to others to make the decision on my future."

Former Chelsea and Manchester United striker Hughes has raised Wales' expectations and masterminded memorable wins over Italy and Germany since taking charge in 1999.

To take his team to the play-offs for Euro 2004 from a group including the Italians, Finland and Serbia and Montenegro was also no mean feat.

But failure to qualify will force the FAW to cut costs and Hughes demands his players receive the best possible treatment and facilities, which are costly.

FAW secretary general David Collins said: "We have fallen at the last hurdle so we have to regroup.

"Mark has made tremendous strides. Hopefully, he will take us forward so we can have another good shot at the qualifiers for 2006."