KOCHI: Indian Super League (ISL) team Kerala Blasters FC have parted ways with manager David James based on mutual consent on Tuesday.
The Englishman was appointed head coach of the team earlier this year in January during the 2017-18 campaign of the Hero Indian Super League (HISL).
Upon his arrival, he guided the Blasters to a commendable sixth-placed finish after a poor start to the campaign. Under James, Kerala began the 2018-19 campaign in stunning fashion with a 2-0 victory against fierce rivals ATK. They have struggled since, languishing at the eighth position after a 11-match winless streak. James’ fate was sealed when Kerala lost to Mumbai 1-6 in an away game recently.
The Blasters and James go a long way back as the latter was also instrumental in guiding Kerala to the finals of Season 1 of the ISL, being the franchise’s marquee player-cum-manager.
The club hasn’t been able to stick with one manager for more than a season, as it had also relieved former Manchester United assistant coach Rene Meulensteen mid-season itself.
In a press release from the club, Blasters CEO Varun Tripuraneni said “The club would like to thank David for his efforts towards the team and wishes him all the very best in his career.”
“I would like to thank the management, players and all the staff at Kerala Blasters for their support and friendship during this episode. I wish them all the very best for the future. I am grateful to the supporters who stood by me, thank you too, for making it a memorable experience,” James commented.
