by Greg Seltzer for Soccer365

1860 Munich defender Gregg Berhalter reports he is gradually working towards his full coaching license in Germany, one he hopes to be able to utilize back home in the United States someday.

The former U.S. international has taken the first step towards certification, but says discussions of where he might seek work are premature.

"I have completed my B coaching license and I definitely consider coaching as one of my options for my future," Berhalter told Soccer365. "I am still undecided where that would be."

"I have been away from home for so long that it would be nice to return and coach in the U.S. - I plan to complete my A license here and then assess it again."

In between coaching classes, Berhalter still finds time every week to marshal the backline for the Lions, who stand sixth in the German second flight through 11 games. The New Jersey native is performing as well as ever of late, helping 1860 leak just one goal during their current five-game unbeaten run.

Though the club has seen promotion hopes fall by the wayside in previous seasons, the American hopes this year's edition can cross the finish line in the race for three Bundesliga places.

"I think any time you have a group of players that are so young consistency is going to be an issue," said Berhalter, already thinking like a manager. "The style of our play has changed a bit to account for this."

"We are now more aware of the discipline needed to keep our team shape and the work that needs to be done without the ball," he stated. "Hopefully this will help us remain a difficult team to beat." 

Berhalter and 1860 Munich will try to make up ground on the leaders when they host Oberhausen on Sunday.

Soccer365 reporter Greg Seltzer blogs daily over at No Short Corners.

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