Durakovic will be assisted by former skipper Kevin Muscat and goalkeeper coach Steve Mautone next season.

Victory had spread their search worldwide to find a replacement for inuagural coach Ernie Merrick after he left the club at the start of their Asian Champions League campaign three months ago.

The club were linked with former English Premier League bosses Roy Keane and Ian Dowie at one stage.

But last week it was revealed the shortlist had been honed down to Durakovic, former Newcastle Jets boss Gary van Egmond and Joeys coach Jan Versleijen.

On Saturday, van EGmond confirmed to au.fourfourtwo.com that he was out of the running for the job and Versleijen admitted he too had missed out.

Victory have now called a press conference for 12.30pm later today where Durakovic is expected to be unveiled as the full-time boss, with Muscat and Mautone as his deputies.

The decision has spaarked speculation the lower cost option - compared to the high wage demands of ex-EPL management - will free up cash to help fund a move to lure Harry Kewell to the club.

Durakovic, 45, is a former Socceroo with 64 caps and lost just one of Victory's five ACL games after taking charge, with one win and three draws, but still failed to qualify from their group to the knockout stage.

  • Meanwhile city rival Melbourne Heart are also expected to hold a press conference today to announce the signing of former North Queensland Fury star David Williams, and possibly confirm the impending arrival of ex-Victory hero, Fred.