By Ryan Songalia

While Amir Khan has a temporary trainer for his next bout, the search for a permanent successor to Oliver Harrison continues.

According to Khan's manager, Asif Vali, a selection will not be made until after Khan's next bout on June 21 at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham, England. Dean Powell, a matchmaker for Khan's promoter Frank Warren, will man the helm for Khan's upcoming fight. Powell has worked in Khan's corner for his entire professional career.

"We've spoken to a few trainers in America," Vali told BoxingScene.com. "Buddy [McGirt] is one of them, Roger Mayweather is one of them, Freddie Roach is another one. We're just talking to people at the moment."

Speaking on the split between Khan and Harrison, Vali maintains that it was a business decision aimed at preserving Khan's best interests and that no ill feelings are being harbored.

"We just thank him for all of his hard work. Unfortunately there was a breakdown in their relationship and relationships can affect a boxer. We decided to part on amicable terms."

Vali says that he anticipates Khan will make his American debut near the end of the year and that an American trainer would best prepare the 2004 Olympic Silver medalist for his trans-Atlantic journey.

"American trainers bring different techniques to Amir's game. For me, having a trainer like Roger Mayweather brings something different to the table than having a UK trainer. The best trainers are in America.

"Amir Khan wants to fight in America. It's not that he needs to come, he wants to come. He wants to fight in Vegas. He wants to fight in all of the places that the top fighters box in. He wants to go as soon as possible, early in his career. If that's what he wants to do, we'll let him fight in America and build a fan base in America."

An opponent for the June 21 date will be announced next week, Vali said.

Khan's professional record is 17-0 (13 KO).

Any questions or comments? Send them to me at mc_rson@yahoo.com