19/01/2012

Chris Coleman Appointed As Wales Manager

The Football Association of Wales have appointed Chris Coleman as the manager of Wales to replace the late Gary Speed.

The FAW’S Chief Executive Jonathan Ford admitted it had been a very difficult period following the tragic suicide of the former 42-year-old manager in November.

“This has been a very difficult process. We have explored every avenue, every scenario possible," Mr Ford said. He added: "We have taken on board the thoughts and views of the backroom staff, the players and the supporters. All along we believe that we have been respectful and dignified and had no wish to be involved in a public debate on the appointment of Gary’s successor."

"Gary was the manager of Welsh football and of course we want to continue his legacy. He was not a figurehead, he was the manager and that is why we have decided on the appointment of Chris Coleman to build on the excellent foundations put in place by Gary.”

Swansea-born former central defender Chris Coleman will be the 12th permanent manager of Wales.

Chris, 41, first went into management as part of the coaching staff at Fulham and acted as caretaker manager in 2003 before being given the job permanently - making him the youngest ever Premier League Manager.

After a promising first season when the team finished ninth. He then had a short spell in Spain at Real Sociedad before resigning in 2008 after a difference of views with the new club president.

His next club was Coventry City in 2008 where he stayed for two years before having his contract terminated. Finally in 2011 he had a short spell with Larissa in Greece, but this ended in January 2012 when he left the club citing their financial problems as not allowing him to fully carry out his position as manager.

(DW)

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