FFU block Blokhin resignation

Public outcry
The FFU accepted the coach's resignation last Wednesday after suggestions that the former Soviet Union international could not continue to be both Ukraine coach and a member of the Ukrainian parliament, but it has reversed that decision after a public outcry.

Political duties
Other members of parliament had questioned the 52-year-old's ability to do both jobs, but now it seems it will be Blokhin's choice as to whether he continues in his unique dual role, having announced on 16 March that he would be concentrating solely on political duties.

Surkis unhappy
Even though the FFU immediately accepted the former FC Dynamo Kyiv player's resignation, FFU president Grigoriy Surkis was quick to state that he did not see any worthy replacement for Blokhin - who has led Ukraine to the top of FIFA World Cup qualifying Group 2 - and was keen for him to change his mind.

Talks arranged
According to Blokhin's press secretary, Ihor Miroshnichenko, talks between the FFU and the coach over his future will begin at the first possible convenience, although his return to the national team could yet be blocked if a court of appeal decides on 22 March that he cannot be an MP as well as a coach. Ukraine will next be in action at home to Denmark on 30 March. They are currently six points above second-placed Greece in Group 2.