Mon Sep 8 13:14:36 2008

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West Ham candidate Laudrup takes charge at Spartak

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Moscow, Russia (Sports Network) - West Ham United's managerial shortlist has just got shorter with the news that potential candidate Michael Laudrup has agreed to take over at Russian club Spartak Moscow.

The 44-year-old Dane was on the list of candidates the Hammers were keen to talk to following the resignation of former boss Alan Curbishley last week.

But the former Brondby and Getafe coach has decided to accept an 18-month contract from Spartak in favor of a move to the Premier League.

Laudrup's decision to head to Russia has left three names on the Upton Park club's list.

Hammers director Mike Lee has already admitted their interest in Croatia manager Slaven Bilic, former Italy boss Roberto Donadoni and current Azzurri Under-21 joint coach Gianfranco Zola.

"Spartak are the best-known Russian club and millions support this team all over the world," Laudrup told uefa.com.

"This situation can be compared with Spain, where we have Real (Madrid) and Barcelona."However, the difference is that Spartak haven't won the domestic league for a long time. This team has to be at the top, while also achieving good results on the European stage. I think Spartak have a good future."

(Courtesy of sportbox.tv)