Sheffield United boss has no interest in joining Welsh team

Speed had been keen on a position six years ago, when Toshack replaced Mark Hughes, but has recently landed his first job in management with the Blades.

The former Leeds United midfielder won 85 caps for his country and was the Welsh captain prior to retiring from international football six years ago.

"I don't think it would be too soon, I just think it is bad timing," he said yesterday. "I have got this job so I am not even thinking about it."

Toshack and the Football Association of Wales parted company by mutual consent nearly a week after the Welsh opened their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign with a defeat against Montenegro.

Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs and Welsh Under-21 coach Brian Flynn are among the early favourites to replace Toshack but Speed thinks former Coventry manager Chris Coleman deserves the opportunity.

"Chris is the outstanding candidate for me," said Speed. "He has experience, he has managed at the highest level, he is out of work, he has got all his badges, and he is a passionate Welshman."

Asked whether he might yet consider a part-time role on the Welsh backroom staff, Speed said: "I don't think you can do it part-time. It's impossible to combine the two jobs. You also open yourself up (to criticism). If I had gone four or five games without a win at Sheffield United and then I am off with Wales, I don't think the Sheffield United fans would be too happy."

Former Liverpool striker Toshack, 61, says he was prepared to carry on for next month's qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland.

"Even after the disappointment of the game in Montenegro that was still the way I felt," said Toshack. "But we have come to the agreement that it may be better for everyone concerned if a change was made now."

Millwall manager Kenny Jackett last night ruled himself out.