Greece accept Markarián's resignation

Greece are looking for a new head coach after the board of directors of the Hellenic Football Federation (EPO) decided to accept Sergio Markarián's resignation.

The Uruguayan originally stepped down on 21 July following a 2-1 UEFA EURO 2016 qualifying defeat in the Faroe Islands, but reports suggested that EPO president Giorgos Girtzikis would try to persuade him to stay. "I ask Greek fans for their forgiveness, because our results were not ones we wanted," Markarián explained at the time, having only taken over in February to replace Claudio Ranieri. "I thank the players, the fans, the Greek federation, my assistants and the media for their respect towards me."

The EPO are now searching for the 70-year-old's replacement, who will lead Greece through qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Current Under-21 coach Kostas Tsanas, whose contract has been extended, will take the senior reigns for the Ethniki's upcoming fixtures in UEFA EURO 2016 qualifying Group F. Bottom with just two points from six games, Greece host Finland on 4 September before travelling to Bucharest to face Romania three days later.