Meanwhile a close associate of the AFA president, Julio Grondona, said it was up to Maradona if he stayed or went. "The ideal thing would be for him to see out his contract," said Luis Segura, chairman of Argentinos Juniors. Segura said none of Maradona's predecessors had been sacked. "The AFA has never cut a contract short and, if Diego decides to carry on, he will carry on."

Maradona's contract runs to the final of the Copa América to be held in Argentina next year.

Diego Maradona suggested his time as Argentina coach was over but strong public support may sway him to stay on