Australian coach Robert Baan chose the eve of his side's pivotal Olympic qualifier against Iran to confirm he will not manage the side beyond the current stage of the campaign.

Dutchman Baan, 64, was employed by the FFA in late 2006 as the federation's technical director of football, but has spent most of his time since overseeing the Australian under 23s bumpy road to the Beijing Olympics.

His preference has clearly been to take control of the broader technical director's role, leaving the job open to several suitors provided the team can reach the next phase, to be played in August.

Ex-Adelaide United coach John Kosmina and Central Coast Mariners mentor Lawrie McKinna are among several names thought to have been discussed in connection with the position.

Australia will be in good shape to progress if victorious Wednesday night at Hindmarsh Stadium, but defeat or a draw would cast a serious shadow over their prospects with only one qualifier remaining.

Baan said a premature exit on the road to the Olympics - Australia have never missed out on a Games they have attempted to qualify for - would be the result of inadequate preparations and player availability.

"I've put everything in that was possible but whether it was a failure or not is for others to judge," he said.

"We could not prepare as much as we wanted to and we have never played in the ideal circumstances."

Iran are infamous for spoiling Australia's 1998 World Cup qualifying bid in dramatic circumstances at the MCG a decade ago.

Baan said he had been told all about that fateful night when the Olyroos flew to Tehran for a draw at the start of qualifying.

The Iranians have since improved markedly as a side, reportedly after a number of talented players were made available by domestic clubs.

"Yes, they told me about that when we were in Iran and I say let's do it the other way round this time," Baan said.

"From watching the DVDs I have of them they seem a much better side than they were in the first match, some of their play and their awareness of the game is quite impressive.

"We have to be patient because they are always looking for the counter-attack, and we need to be patient with our finishing, we need to make chances of course but also take them better."

Baan is hoping the addition of forward James Troisi, currently on the books of troubled English club Newcastle United, will add a welcome element of creativity.

"He's not a big goal scorer, he's more an assister," Baan said. "Hopefully he can work alongside (Mark) Bridge and (Kristian) Sarkies."

The match kicks off at 7pm CST Wednesday night.

Daniel Brettig
AAP