India's footballing authorities want to extend successful coach Bob Houghton's contract until after the 2011 Asian Cup.

Houghton led India to qualification for a first Asian Cup since 1984 with victory in the Asian Challenge Cup earlier this month.

The Briton's current deal is due to end in June next year but All India Football Federation president Priya Ranjan Dasmunshi is confident of agreeing a new deal.

"We will extend his contract next year," he said.

Despite the optimism surrounding Houghton, the international future of captain Baichung Bhutia is less certain.

Dasmunshi also sent out a plea to captain Bhutia not to retire until after the tournament, which will be staged in Qatar.

"Whatever the pressures, don't retire until the Asian Cup," Dasmunshi told the 32-year-old Bhutia, who was named Most Valuable Player in the Challenge Cup.

Bhutia acknowledged Dasmunshi's request but refused to offer assurances that he would be around in three years time.

"It's a nice gesture," he said. "But I can't say if I would be playing by the time the Asian Cup comes around.

"I will continue playing only if I enjoy it and my body is up to it."

Bhutia was on the verge of quitting prior to Houghton's arrival, but reconsidered after a request from the coach.

Bhutia believes Indian football is heading in the right direction under the Briton.

"Extending Houghton's contract augurs well for Indian football," Bhutia said. "He is the best coach we have had in a long time."