MOSCOW, Oct 24, Oleg Bogatov. Olympic champion and five-time world champion Khadzhimurat Gatsalov said that he was ready to consider the offer to lead the Russian freestyle wrestling team only if the position was free. The head coach of the national team, Dzambolat Tedeev, said that he had a valid contract, but his name was removed from the list for wages. As a source previously told the agency, Gatsalov is the most realistic candidate for the post of head coach if Tedeev leaves. «The situation, of course, is not entirely pleasant. Dzambolat Ilyich Tedeev is an honored person, and for many years he has shown good results with the Russian national team. To me today the situation is not entirely clear, because there are many details that I don’t know. And I can’t give any objective assessment,» said Gatsalov. «There were no offers (to lead the national team). If they offer me and I will know, that Dzambolat Ilyich is already leaving, then only after that I can say «yes». I have never gone, as they say, to a living place. And I will never go.» «I have my principles. But if everyone decides and an offer is made me, then I will consider it. I know the team and am on good terms with Mikhail Gerazievich (Mamiashvili), and with the vice-presidents, and with the guys. I know the work, the training system, and if this happens, then why not? If will be pr proposal, I’m ready to consider it,” the specialist added. According to information, a meeting of the executive committee of the Russian Wrestling Federation may take place this week.
