Peter Reid has reached agreement with the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) to leave his post as its national team coach to become Stoke's assistant manager, English media reported yesterday.
Peter Reid signed a four-year contract with the Thai FA last September. FILE PHOTO
"Once everything was sorted out with the Thai FA, which was important because I did have three years left on a deal there and I didn't want to upset anyone there, I was delighted to say yes and be part of it," he told BBC Radio Stoke.
"I enjoyed it there. The players are technically very very good. It's a great place to live in terms of the culture and the climate," the English coach said.
"But the Premier League is the greatest league in the world and I'm English through and through. Even though it was very difficult to leave, it was always my ambition to come back here and work."
The 53-year-old, who signed a four-year contract with the FAT last September, was expected to be in the dugout last night when Stoke took on Leyton Orient in the League Cup.
Reid insists he has no problem with taking on the role of a number two.
"I did the same thing at Manchester City and Everton, and the England Under-21s, so it's not a problem," he said.
"Anything to do with football I enjoy. I enjoy being involved with the players. The role is fine, it will do for me as long as I can have an impact here and help this club grow stronger."
The former Leeds and Sunderland manager added: "The club has done fantastic staying in the Premier League. We've got a battle on this season but it's important I can help the players and Tony Pulis to improve and make the club stronger - that's my job.
"Number two doesn't matter. As long as I can have some input into making this club stronger."
Stoke's interest in Reid stepped up a gear last week when Pulis contacted the former England midfielder to sound him out.
"I saw him on a social occasion and he flagged it up," said Reid.
"I was due to fly out to Dubai last Friday and I got a call in the morning (saying) could I get down here and we had a chat and we clicked. I've known Tony numerous years."
FAT secretary-general Ong-art Kosinkha said: "News from the BBC is often trustworthy."
He said the matter could become clear today after FAT president Worawi Makudi, who is in England as guest of the English FA, talked to Reid."We should get a conclusion tomorrow," Ong-art said.
http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/sports/22756/reid-confirms-he-leaving-for-stoke
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