New Zealand football coach Ricki Herbert was guarded about his future when he arrived home on Friday after steering his team through a surprisingly successful World Cup campaign.

Although the All Whites failed to progress beyond the first round of the tournament, they were unbeaten in group play, surpassing expectations.

Herbert is reported to have received approaches from clubs in Europe, Asia and the Middle East but would only say there were "a few things" in the air.

He said he was immediately returning to his job as coach of New Zealand's only professional team, the Wellington Phoenix, and expected to have career talks with Football New Zealand.

"I'm going back to Wellington today. That's where I'm employed and that's my job as we speak," Herbert said.

Herbert hoped he would be able to remain in New Zealand and said had been in positive talks with football officials.

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