Kelantan FA pick Boateng as new head coach

PETALING JAYA: The Kelantan FA have opted for a Dutch flavour and have signed former Holland international George Boateng as their new head coach in a bid to turn their fortunes around in the M-League.

The 38-year-old former midfielder will take over from interim coaches Zahasmi Ismail and Mohd Hashim Mustapha.

The Red Warriors parted ways with previous coach Steve Darby last week, following a humiliating 4-0 loss to minnows Sime Darby in a Super League match at the Selayang Stadium.

Kelantan FA chief executive officer Kevin Ramalingam confirmed Boateng’s appointment and said that the Dutchman had signed a six-month contract.

Boateng, who had an illustrious career in the English Premier League (EPL) with Aston Villa and Middlesbrough, played for M-League side T-Team last season before hanging up his boots.

“They were several candidates for the post but Boateng’s presentation on his plans and vision for the team put him above the rest,” said Kevin on Thursday.

“We have signed him on a six-month contract, with an option of extending it for one year after the end of the season.”

The east coast giants have also signed Ghanaian international Prince Tagoe to strengthen their strike force while Iraqi international Hussein Alaa Hussein has been brought in to shore up the defence.

Kelantan, who are FA Cup champions, are languishing in seventh spot in the 12-team Super League with 20 points after 14 matches. They will be meeting Felda United in the semi-final of the FA Cup on May 6.

“We have to be fair ... the team are in the process of rebuilding and we’re looking at the next few years. But that doesn’t mean we are not looking at lifting any silverware or winning,” said Kevin.

“We’re still in the FA Cup and Malaysia Cup and we’ll go all out in those two tournaments ... it’s harder in the Super League because you need consistency.”