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Terim to step down as Turkey coach

26/06/2008

Fatih Terim has said he will quit as Turkey coach after seeing his side knocked out of Euro 2008 at the semi-final stage by Germany.

The popular manager has revealed he will step down after three years in charge, but he refused to be drawn on his possible destination – saying only that he will not return to manage in Turkey.

"Most probably after speaking to the federation president and the players I will choose to say this is what I have done," said Terim.

"I had declared earlier I would not be working in Turkey and I am a man who keeps my promises. I will most probably go back to a European country."

A thrilling match in Basel ended 3-2 to the Germans after full-back Phillipp Lahm scored in injury time to win the game.

Earlier, the Turks had fought back from 2-1 down to draw level with less than ten minutes left when Semi Senturk toe-poked home at the near post when the game was seemingly lost.

And Terim expressed his immense pride for his players, who had shown their heart in fighting back against the Czech Republic in their final group game as well as forcing penalties against Croatia in the quarter-finals with a last-minute equaliser.

"I congratulate Germany for their win and wish them success for final but I am proud of my players and think their will to play well, and the technical support, all came together and they were able to show the world what a good team they were," the coach continued.

"I think we are leaving as the most colourful team of the tournament. We can say we were almost there, but that is part of football as well."