Withe, who coached the national team for three years until his contract ran out in October, said he had received an improved offer from the Football Association of Thailand.

'In principle, I've accepted an offer to continue coaching the Thai team from January 1, but I want to see it on paper before I finally make up my mind,' the former England and Aston Villa striker said on Monday.

'There might be something in it which I don't like and then it isn't agreed. I'll be taking a hard look before the end of the month and if I like what I see, I'll sign it.'

Withe's salary was previously paid by the English Football Association as part of a programme to help developing nations.

After his contract ran out, the Thai Football Association entered talks with International Management Group (IMG) about a sponsorship deal that would pay Withe's wages.

Withe rejected an initial offer, believed to be half his previous salary.

Vorawit Sampachanyastit, secretary for the Thai soccer team, said Withe would return as coach in January and would help prepare for the King's Cup tournament in February.

Withe said the new offer would give him more managerial responsibility, but declined to disclose financial details before adding: 'I'm still not on what I was earning previously.'

When Withe began coaching Thailand the team was in disarray.