Football Federation Australia boss David Gallop has failed to end speculation about Socceroo coach Ange Postecoglou's future.
It was reported after the World Cup qualification game against Syria that Postecoglou would quit after next month's playoff against Honduras.
Gallop did not provide any clarity on Postecoglou's future, short-term or otherwise, when he faced reporters on Monday.
Asked whether Postecoglou had confirmed he would be stepping down after the playoff matches on Nov. 10 and 15, Gallop said: "No, I think he's not necessarily indicated that he's made a decision, he's focused on November and that's where we're at.
"Obviously I've spoken to Ange a number of times, a number of factors go into this kind of thing.
"He's made no secret of the fact he wants to coach week-in, week-out again but his focus is on November and knuckling down to the task, which is to qualify for our fourth consecutive World Cup."
Gallop said the timing of Postecoglou's reported departure was not ideal and, asked who might be contenders for the post if it falls vacant, added: "I'm not in a position to give you names, but I can tell you that we're constantly making sure that we know what's out there."
He said any replacement for Postecoglou would "not necessarily" be Australian but explained: "I think it's always in our interests to look to Australian coaches if we can.
"But it's been a strong point in the last few years is to have that connection to Australian football and understanding the A-League and an ability to look below the Socceroos at what our structures are where we're at with our junior national teams."
Postecoglou has yet to address reports that he would go whether or not Australia qualify for the World Cup.
Reports suggested he had grown tired of what he perceived to be incessant criticism of his tactics.
Former Socceroos captain Paul Wade told Australian Associated Press: "I would hope it's not player power.
"He's been copping flak from the media who are asking him to be sacked, but Ange is big enough to handle that.
"The key word for me is undermined, as a coach, if you're being undermined by whoever, then I would find it untenable.