Football legend Diego Maradona says it's his dream to become Argentina's national team coach, despite criticism that his lack of experience would make it a risky move.

The 1986 World Cup captain spoke to reporters in Tbilisi, Georgia ahead of a friendly match between friends of Maradona and a side made up of veteran Georgian players. Maradona reiterated his desire to succeed Alfio Basile as Argentina's coach.

Maradona has stiff competition for the job, with former Boca Juniors coach Carlos Bianchi emerging as favorite. But Maradona, originally seen as an unlikely choice, is still in the running. He was also initially seen as a rank outsider because of his explosive temper and lack of coaching experience.

Now, Maradona has emerged as a serious candidate after repeatedly expressing his interest.

Diego Maradona said, "I would very much like to be the coach of the Argentina team, I will begin to get to know the players better!." "I don't know anything, it's just a dream and nothing has been said. Grondona (Argentina FA president)will have to say."

(CCTV October 27, 2008)