Former Sheikh Russell KC coach Maruful Haque has joined Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi Club as the technical adviser for the remainder of the season, confirmed the club officials, adding that he will start working in the capacity from today. ‘Maruf is one of the most experienced coaches in Dhaka football and we want to use his vast experience to clinch some titles,’ said Manjur Kader, president of Sheikh Jamal on Saturday.
Jamal are now leading the league table with 39 points from 17 matches, six ahead of their nearest challengers Abahani Limited.
Maruf, who was ignominiously sacked by Sheikh Russell in April, will join Nigerian coach Josheph Afusi, who helped Jamal clinch the Federation Cup earlier in the season but failed in some other tournaments.
Kader claimed that due to lack of experience of Josheph, they failed to win the IFA Shield.
‘Josheph was a player of my team three years ago before taking over as coach, so he does not have enough experience and due to his inexperience we lost the final of the IFA Shield,’ said Keder, who praised Maruf for his technical ability.
‘In the field, coaches and managers also should play and Maruf is the kind of coach who always takes the right decision at the right moment. Due to Maruf’s presence of mind we lost two titles in the last season to Sheikh Russell.’
Kader, however, refused to sack Josheph during the league.
‘It will look odd if we sack Josheph at this moment when the team are firmly in the title race.’
Maruf was also happy to forge a relationship with Jamal.
‘I am grateful to Kader [Manjur] Bhai because he gave me the opportunity to work with his club at a crucial time of my career,’ said Maruf. ‘My main job is to motivate the players and share my experience with the coach if he wants.’
Sources said Jamal will pay Maruf Tk 2 lakh as monthly remuneration.
-With New Age input
