Inter Turku change coach

FC Inter Turku have changed their coach just a week before the start of the new Finnish season.

Health worry
Pertti Lundell decided to stand down because of his health, having taken two months off earlier this year after a blood clot in his leg. Lundell met club directors yesterday and it has now been agreed that he will make way for a new man.

Derby start
"It was a mutual agreement," said Lundell. "It's better for me to take it a little bit easier after the thrombosis. The pressure as a head coach may be too much at the moment." Inter Turku's 2003 campaign begins next Thursday against local rivals TPS Turku.

New role
Lundell's assistant Kari Virtanen has assumed the head coaching duties, although Lundell will not be leaving the club entirely. He will remain involved in the youth set-up and help to find new talent. "I'm very happy the club gave me this possibility," Lundell added. "Kari [Virtanen] takes charge and I will give him all the assistance he wants. I am definitely not quitting coaching. I will come back next season or maybe even earlier."

Chairman content
"He is a typical Finnish man," said Inter Turku chairman Stefan Håkans. "He was prepared to do job no matter what happened, but I think this was for the best for everyone."