Shen Denies Resignation Talks |
http://www.sina.com.cn 2004/03/24 10:51 Shanghai Daily |
Chinese Under-23 head coach Shen Xiangfu yesterday denied reports that he had resigned after Saturday's 1-1 tie against Malaysia in an Asian zone Group A Olympic soccer qualifier. The Chinese Olympic team came in for severe criticism from the media following its lackluster 1-1 draw with its Southeast Asian visitors, which puts South Korea in the driving seat to qualify for the Athens Olympics this summer. Reports claimed that Shen had given the Chinese Football Association a notice to be relieved of his duty, but Shen rejected it. "I've not handed in my resignation," said the former national assistant coach who was leading the Olympic squad to train for Saturday's clash against Iran. "Now I am thinking of ways to improve the competitive abilities of our players ... I mean, the ability to let them play to their normal level during big games. "From now on, we'll not think about whether we can go to Athens or not," Shen said yesterday. China picked up only one point from past two games, five adrift of Group A leader South Korea with four games remaining. Iran lies second with 3 points. Only group winner will get a ticket for Athens Olympics in August. (The Associated Press) |
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