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Dick Advocaat out of retirement and named as new Iraq coach

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Dick Advocaat is out of retirement again, this time to take up the reigns as the new head coach of Iraq.

This appointment becomes his seventh international job, following stints in charge of Netherlands (x3), UAE, South Korea, Belgium, Russia and Serbia.

Mrs Advocaat must be a very patient woman but at the ripe old age of 73, why is her husband taking up another role in football?

The former Rangers manager just seems unable to settle for a ‘normal’ life, outside of what he knows best.

Despite the emotional scenes at Feyenoord last season as Advocaat seemed to be saying goodbye for the final, he is back in the game for another roll of the dice.

The man himself responded when questioned on his motives, as reported by The National (UAE):

“It’s a nice challenge. I will be busy eight days a month, otherwise I’m in the Netherlands. And people immediately think of money, but countries like this don’t have that much money.”

“I’m not doing it for that. It’s a challenge. I’m looking forward to it.”

Baghdad Bound

It will certainly not be about money – Advocaat will be a very wealthy man following his long distinguished football management career.

He simply can’t switch off and now, an effective part time role working with the Iraqi national team is his latest assignment.

The mission is to guide them to the Qatar World Cup after a second place finish behind neighbours Iran in Group C of the Asian qualifiers (first stage) last month secured  a second group phase berth.

Now, Iraq will compete in a six-team group against Iran, Lebanon, South Korea, Syria and the UAE in which a top two finish will secure qualification for the World Cup next year.

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