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Kyle Shanahan coy on claims he will be next San Francisco 49ers head coach

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - SEPTEMBER 20: Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan looks on during a game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadi
Image: Kyle Shanahan is the leading contender to take over at the San Francisco 49ers

Kyle Shanahan has refused to be drawn on reports that he is poised to become the new head coach of the San Francisco 49ers.

The 37-year-old is the current offensive co-ordinator for the Atlanta Falcons who are preparing for their NFC Championship clash against Green Bay this Sunday.

Shanahan has drawn praise for his week with Matt Ryan and the Falcons offence, which is regarded at the best in the NFL, and reports suggest as soon as Atlanta's play-off bid is over he will take over at the 49ers having already interviewed for the position.

New England's offensive co-ordinator Josh McDaniels earlier this week ruled out a move to Levi's Stadium, but speaking at Atlanta's latest media conference Shanahan refused to be drawn on the speculation.

"My situation outside of this week, I'm definitely excited about that but it's not something I know exactly what the situation is right now," said Shanahan.

Head coach Chip Kelly will hope to lead the 49ers to an improved year after much disappointment in San Francisco
Image: Chip Kelly was fired at the end of the regular season after the 49ers

"I know I think I'll get that opportunity next week [to talk to them again] but besides that, the NFL keeps it pretty simple [with rules re: coaches still involved in playoffs.]"

"It's a pretty good situation that we're in - it's a pretty cool situation. It's not a distraction. Rules I thought weren't cool rules, actually are [because teams can't talk to me].

"Knowing that right now we have a chance to play for a Super Bowl is consuming my mind."

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San Francisco are seeking their fourth head coach in four years having fired Chip Kelly at the end of the regular season and they are also seeking a new general manager after Trent Baalke was also dismissed.

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