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Wicks steps down as coach


Tuesday, May 5, 1998

By S. Navalan

TUES: Steve Wicks, describing it as the hardest decision he has had to make, yesterday stepped
down as Selangor coach.

The Englishman said he made the decision to ease the FA of Selangor's financial burden and that it
had nothing to do with the team's inconsistent form. Selangor have won two out of six matches so
far.

"I respect Selangor and thank the management for standing by me even when times were not so
good. But it had become increasingly obvious to me that my financial package is a burden to the
FAS," said Wicks.

"Although they tried their best to accommodate me, I know the situation they are in. Thus, I made
this decision (to resign) with a heavy heart. I love this team.

"But I would rather suffer than let the players suffer because of the association's financial problems.
With me stepping down, I know the FA will be in a better position financially and will be able to
look after the players better."

Wicks has another eight months remaining on his contract. His decision will save FAS up to
RM450,000 this year.

It is learnt that Wicks was getting a salary of RM40,000 per month with other perks, including match
bonuses.

Both Wicks and FAS deputy president Datuk Mokhtar Ahmad, the team manager, declined to
comment on the amount of compensation Wicks received.

Mokhtar only said they came to a mutual agreement with a token sum given to Wicks in appreciation
of his services.

According to Wicks's contract, the coach will receive three months' salary and bonuses if there is a
mutual agreement between the two parties on a termination.

FAS have appointed Ismail Zakaria as Wicks's replacement while Mohamed Shah Norbit remains
as assistant coach.

Wicks said he wishes the coaches and players all the very best and more success in the future.

The players were shocked by the news but Wicks assured them that his decision was for their
benefit.

"Despite the position Selangor are in, I still believe they have the ability to finish among the top three
this season," said Wicks.

Mokhtar pointed out that their low gate takings was the main reason they were financially in trouble.
He said Selangor had only managed to collect about RM200,000 in three home matches this season.
At the same stage last year, they had collected more than RM1 million.

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