Soccer-Former Japan coach Osim mulls return to bench

TOKYO, June 5 (Reuters) - Former Japan coach Ivica Osim has refused to rule out a return to management following his recovery from a life-threatening stroke.

"I would like to be sit on the bench again," the 67-year-old told reporters. "Obviously I don't want to die on the bench. That would be too spectacular."

Osim was unable to watch Japan's penalty shootout against Australia in last year's Asian Cup quarter-finals, disappearing down the tunnel after extra time.

The Bosnian admitted after the game he had feared a heart attack and a few months later suffered a serious stroke at his home and fell into a coma.

Osim was replaced by Takeshi Okada in December but has accepted an advisory role with the Japan Football Association (JFA).

"I am proud that the JFA have confidence in me," Osim was quoted as saying in Thursday's Japanese media. "I hope I will be able to contribute in my new capacity."

Okada has been forced to accept an awkward union with his predecessor, who took a swipe at the current Japan side before this weekend's World Cup qualifier in Oman.

"The players need to run more," said Osim. "If they want to improve they will need to work much harder."

(Writing by Alastair Himmer; Editing by Martin Petty)