Under-fire Argentina coach Diego Maradona looks set to be sacked by the Argentine FA as early as next week.

Argentina are in danger of missing out on the 2010 World Cup in South Africa after four defeats in six qualifiers.

If they miss out, it would be the first time since 1970. Maradona, the coach of the side, could be out of a job as of next week.

The two-time World Cup winners have been repeatedly castigated by their own press, many of whom blamed the defeats on Maradona.

"Maradona and the squad are distanced and this is ever increasing," reported Buenos Aires newspaper Clarin, in reference to the possible internal conflict within the Argentine national team.

"Those who live day to day with the national team assure that next week will be a crucial week in relation to his [Maradona's] future. Important things will be decided. Diego Maradona, for the first time since he was appointed as the coach of the team, will have his power cut."

There is also speculation that Maradona may stay on as coach but a more experienced coach will assist him for the next two vital games. Argentina's next two World Cup qualifiers against Peru and Uruguay next month are must-win games.

The AFA will also reign in Maradona's powers and it has been reported that Argentina will return to playing at the Monumental stadium for future World Cup qualifiers. This will start against Peru next month.

'El Pibe de Oro' may not even be allowed to select his squad for Argentina's final two qualifiers against Peru and Uruguay, and this could be decided by AFA chief Julio Grondona instead.

Maradona's idea is to exclude several key players who ply their trade in Europe, to give preference to those players who play in Argentina's local competition, who he feels are more "hungry" to fight for the Argentina shirt.

La Nacion reported that "Diego Maradona believes several players aren't hungry enough to get out of this sticky situation, while some players feel unprotected for the lack of a clear idea and are uncomfortable because of the unclear messages Maradona sends."