According to reports the former Watford U23s coach is in the box seat to replace sacked manager Dermot Drummy.

The appointment, expected early next week, would be the Australian's first senior managerial post.

Kewell was sacked by the Hornets last month after a string of disappointing results but did oversee the promotion of three players to the first team.

The 38-year-old World Cup veteran was one of a number of coaches linked with the vacant Newcastle Jets post which eventually went to former Wellington Phoenix boss, Ernie Merrick.

In the past Kewell has confirmed a desire to coach in the A-League but admits his ultimate goal is to take the reins at his former club, Liverpool FC.

Last year he told Fox Sports: "I always dreamed big when I was a player. I always wanted to hit the heights, play at the highest level, play for the biggest teams.

“There’s no difference, I want to go to the highest level in management.

“I may be a great coach, I may be a great assistant coach, I may be a great under-23’s coach or it may be I’m great at academy level, I don’t know yet. I’m going to try go for the highest level.”