Outspoken Paul fired
Mqondisi Dube | Thursday May 21, 2015 18:02
Paul confirmed his departure, but referred further questions to the Botswana Football Association (BFA).
“I cannot say much please talk to the BFA.” Paul had been infuriated by soccer authorities’ decision to send five of his key members to South Africa for the COSAFA Cup.
His comments triggered a dramatic exit as reports of back stabbing at Lekidi Centre gather pace.
Paul did not hide his disappointment at the 10am Lekidi Centre press conference yesterday, just three hours before he lost both his jobs. He said he had not been involved in the decision to send five Under-23 players to South Africa for the COSAFA Cup.
Dirty politics at the BFA have been cited as the reason for Paul’s exit. He had reportedly fallen out with former ally, Peter Butler over allegations he wanted to topple the Briton. “Certain people misled Butler into believing that Paul was after his job. This triggered a sustained campaign to have Paul removed from both jobs and his comments ensured his dismissal,” a source said.
Paul’s former assistant, Davis Kopi is now expected to lead the Under-23 side as the team now has to put the boardroom issues aside in search for a healthy first leg lead.
But reports are that other Under-23 technical team members also wanted to resign in solidarity with Paul, a move that might leave preparations for the Zambia encounter in disarray.
BFA president, Tebego Sebego confirmed Paul’s dismissal through a press statement. “It has become apparent that both the Association and Mr Paul have a variance of philosophy on player development. He was engaged on voluntary basis, and was discharged following a spate of public statements, undermining the Association and its leadership. The decision is therefore purely in the interest of protecting the integrity and image of the Association,” Sebego said.
Meanwhile, Paul has been linked with the Gaborone United head coach’s job.
GU are still in talks with the current coach, Rahman Gumbo whose contract expires next month.