Sources say the Japan Football Association has asked men's national team coach Moriyasu Hajime to stay in his post.

The JFA has been considering who should lead the team, as Moriyasu's contract expired at the end of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Japan advanced to the last 16 after beating powerhouses Germany and Spain in the group stage, but failed to reach the quarterfinals as the team had hoped.

Once the JFA and Moriyasu agreed on contract details, his new tenure will be finalized upon approval by the association's executive committee.

When Moriyasu appeared on an NHK program after returning from Qatar, he was positive about staying at the helm of the national team.

JFA President Tashima Kohzo praised the coach for creating a sense of unity among the players and said he is one of the candidates for the top job.