Coleman hits back at TV talk

Chris Coleman has reacted furiously to an interview broadcast in the aftermath of Edwin van der Sar's decision to sign a new contract at Fulham.

The Dutchman, who agreed a one-year extension to his deal this week, told Sky Sports he would have stalled on talks if there had been interest from Manchester United or Arsenal.

This sparked an immediate reaction from Coleman. "Let's get it right for Christ's sake, I was a player myself and if there was a big club like United or Chelsea and there was a chance then you are going to turn your head, it's as simple as that," said the Fulham manager.

"Edwin wasn't saying Fulham are second best, all he said was he didn't get a phone call. The thing is, two of our main players, or best players, have extended their contracts and that's end of story."

Coleman confirmed he held a meeting with Craig Brown yesterday with a view to employing the former Scotland boss in a scouting role.

Zesh Rehman, Papa Bouba Diop and Carlos Bocanegra are suspended for the fourth-round FA Cup tie at Derby tomorrow, but Claus Jensen and Alain Goma return to the squad after lengthy absences.