Despite the team crashing out of South Africa in the Second Round the head of Argentine football insisted the matter was completely in the hands of 'El Diego'.

Julio Humberto Grondona, the head of the Argentine football governing body, AFA, has stated unequivocally that Diego Maradona will not be asked to leave his position as coach of La Seleccion.

'El Pelusa' had hinted following the Albiceleste's World Cup defeat at the hands of Germany that he would not continue at the helm; even telling reporters yesterday that "my time is up" when questioned on the matter. But the AFA head assured that if any decision would be made, it would have to come from the outspoken coach, as he has no intention of firing the legend.

Controversial Grondona, who has been the undisputed head of Argentine football for over 30 years, stated in an interview from South Africa awith Channel 3: "The decision depends on Maradona, he still has a contract with us."

And the director went further in stating the AFA's position on the matter, explaining that "Maradona is the only person in the country that can do whatever he wants".