WASHINGTON (AP) -Steve Spagnuolo pulled out of the running for the Washington Redskins coaching job Thursday, citing his desire to remain with the Super Bowl champion New York Giants.

``His heart is in New York City,'' Spagnuolo's agent, Bob Lamonte, told The Associated Press. ``He loves the ownership. He loves the players. He feels he has to stay there.''

With the Giants defensive coordinator crossed off the list, Ron Meeks and Jim Fassel became the favorites to replace Joe Gibbs, who resigned Jan. 8. Steve Mariucci also remained in contention.

A person familiar with the Redskins' selection process said Spagnuolo and the team mutually agreed he is probably a year or two away from being prepared to become a head coach. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the club has preferred to keep the details of its search private.

Spagnuolo left the Washington area Wednesday night after more than 16 hours of talks over two days at owner Dan Snyder's house.

``Basically, he called Dan this morning and thanked him for the opportunity,'' said Lamonte, who added he expects Spagnuolo to get a contract extension from the Giants.

Spagnuolo became a hot coaching commodity during the Giants' championship run, even though he had been a coordinator for only one season. His defense stifled the New England Patriots in the 17-14 Super Bowl victory.

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AP Sports Writer Tom Canavan in Newark, N.J., contributed to this report.Copyright © 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.