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Devan quits, Maniam steps in

New Selangor coach P. Maniam putting the players through the paces yesterday. — Picture by Osman Adnan.
New Selangor coach P. Maniam putting the players through the paces yesterday. — Picture by Osman Adnan.
 
K. DEVAN has resigned abruptly as Selangor head coach amid the ongoing Malaysia Cup competition. The FA of Selangor (FAS) declined to give the reasons for the coach's sudden decision to quit.

It is learnt that the 60-year-old, who tendered his resignation letter to FAS on Monday, stepped down due to pressure from the fans and the team management.

Devan had only two months left on his three-year contract.
Assistant coach P. Maniam has replaced Devan as the chief coach and the former international took charge of the team for the first time at the Shah Alam training ground yesterday.

FAS secretary-general Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said the association persuaded Devan to stay on but nothing could change his mind.

"His resignation was agreed upon by mutual agreement. The management and players are saddened but we must continue with our mission in the Malaysia Cup," said Hamidin in Shah Alam yesterday.

"Devan left because he felt he could no longer help Selangor. He took responsibility for Selangor's poor form this season."

Devan, who replaced Dollah Salleh as coach before the start of the 2009 season, led the team to four titles over the span of two seasons.

His downfall came when FAS released Safee Sali, who was on contract with them until November, after only three matches in the Super League this season. They could only finish third in the league.

Selangor are also in danger of missing the Malaysia Cup quarter-finals as they have only earned four points with two matches left to play.

Hamidin said Selangor's immediate mission under Maniam would be to win their two remaining group matches in the Malaysia Cup.

"Our priority has changed a little. We want to win the Malaysia Cup for the 33rd time but we can only dream about the title if we win our remaining matches.

"I believe Maniam, an A-Licence coach, will do the job successfully. We have told him to focus on both games first.

"Maniam is a young but experienced coach. He has helped Selangor win titles in national youth competitions, including the 2008 President Cup."

Maniam said: "Devan and I will remain friends forever. He is like a brother to me... in fact he is my 'sifu'. I am confident of taking this team far in this competition. I will definitely make tactical changes as my style is different," said Maniam, a former international.

Selangor captain Amri Yahyah said Devan left without informing the players of his resignation.

"We are upset and sad as he is a good coach. It is shocking as we were not informed until just now," said Amri.

Selangor will restart their Malaysia Cup campaign against Police in Paroi on Saturday.

Read more: NST

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