Funkel era over at Köln

Bundesliga strugglers 1. FC Köln have sacked coach Friedhelm Funkel, the man who guided them to promotion last season.

Poor form
The 49-year-old Funkel was informed of the decision today by club chairman Albert Caspers and manager Andreas Rettig. They decided to act following a disappointing performance in the 3-2 German Cup victory against an under-strength VfL Wolfsburg on Tuesday night and the 2-0 league defeat by Eintracht Frankfurt last Saturday.

'Goals in danger'
"We think that the goals we have set ourselves are in serious danger," the club said in a statement. Assistant coach Jos Luhukay will take charge of the side for the next Bundesliga match against Hannover 96 on Saturday, but the Dutchman is not going to be a permanent solution.

Koller favourite
"We will try to sign a new head coach as soon as possible," the club added, with speculation growing that former Grasshopper-Club coach Marcel Koller will be appointed. Rettig has admitted that Koller "is the top name on our list".

Positive perspective
Funkel, who had been in charge at Köln since February 2002, said: "I hope that the decision will help the players release some extra energy and create a more positive atmosphere around the club."

Bounced back
After replacing Ewald Lienen towards the end of the 2001/02 season, Funkel's side failed to avoid relegation. However, the former 1. FC Kaiserlauten and SC Bayer 05 Uerdingen striker, was able to lead them to promotion at the first time of asking. After ten games of the new season, Köln are third from bottom with just seven points.