Glory days over for McMahon

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Glory days over for McMahon
By Scott Coghlan
December 08, 2005

FORMER Liverpool star Steve McMahon's troubled and brief reign as coach of Perth Glory came to an abrupt end yesterday when he agreed to part ways with the club.

In a statement issued last night by both parties, McMahon claimed to be unaware of the reasons behind his downfall, which had been rumoured for days.

The situation came to a head after reports over the weekend that the club had resolved McMahon would not survive beyond the end of the season.

"I still don't know myself what has led to this situation and feel hurt and upset by articles published recently which are unfounded," McMahon said.

"The situation has come as a complete shock to me and my family.

"We are not aware of any problems at the club, which I leave in a good position.

"I hope that all this nonsense will not have an adverse effect on the players and supporters of Perth Glory.

"I would also like to categorically state that I leave the club on good terms with the board, players and staff.

"This has been a difficult time for all of us over the past few days and I hope we will now be able to get on with our lives."

The forthright McMahon had a strained relationship with several of his players and the performance of his son, Steve McMahon Jnr, has been a touchy subject.

Glory crowds have been down significantly this season, but the team is sitting fourth after its 2-2 draw with Central Coast on Sunday.

McMahon met Glory owner and chairman Nick Tana yesterday, the pair agreeing to the financial terms of a split.

"It is in the interests of both parties that we bring the speculation to an end," Tana said. "We part amicably and are sad that it has come to this but it is in the wider interest of Perth Glory that we part company."

Glory now begin the search for a new coach, although assistant Alan Vest or its former NSL coach Mich D'Avray could take the reins for an interim period.