Just who “owns” national coach Henrique Calisto remains a matter for debate. However, while he may be under contract, he is still very much his own man. He describes the situation.

The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) has several times confirmed that it has asked you to sign another contract to lead the national squad. What is your opinion on this?

Before the U23 team joined the SEA Games, I had lunch with two VFF officials and they invited me to extend the contract. But, as yet, I’ve not signed any contracts because before we can reach agreement there are many issues that must be made clear. These include both the working environment and conditions. I need more time to think about it. The question of extending my contract can’t yet be answered.

If your contract is extended, will you ask to work with T&T Hanoi between international commitments?

Guiding the national team is an honor but I don’t want to do only that job. I love working everyday. I can’t confirm whether I will work for both the national squad and T&T Hanoi or any club. That’s a matter for the future. I will make the decision at the most suitable moment.

While you was in Portugal for your Christmas holiday, Dong Tam Long An confirmed that they signed a contract with you until 2011. What can you comment about this?

I’ve worked with Dong Tam Long An for a long time and I have a close relations with Mr. Thang (the club’s chairman). It is true that my contract with Dong Tam Long An will expire in 2011. I’ve contacted Mr. Thang several times to put an end to this issue but Thang doesn’t answer yet.

I’ve conducted Dong Tam Long An. I want to solve everything in a friendly manner. I’ll continue making contact with Dong Tam Long An. If Mr. Thang still doesn’t answer then I will have my own ways to deal with the remaining ties with Dong Tam Long An.

It is rumored that Dong Tam Long An has not paid a salary to you since you started working for the national squad?

Yes, I’ve not received anything from Dong Tam Long An for the last 21 months. I and Thang have met each others many times but we didn’t talk about football or the job at Dong Tam Long An. I will quickly solve issues related to Dong Tam Long An. I have an old contract with Dong Tam Long An but it doesn’t influence my future.

VFF is waiting for you to sign a new contract. When will you make your decision?

I will consider it and make a clear statement regarding VFF’s proposal after solving everything related to Dong Tam Long An.

VietNamNet/Dan Tri