Heerenveen and Verbeek to part ways

SC Heerenveen have announced that coach Gertjan Verbeek will leave the northern Dutch side at the end of the season.

'Fresh direction'
The 45-year-old replaced Foppe de Haan in the summer of 2004 and has enjoyed a successful spell at the Abe Lenstra Stadium, but the club's board have decided on a change of direction. "We're satisfied with Verbeek, but four years is a long time in the Eredivisie," general manager Yme Kuiper said. "We're looking for someone who can give fresh direction to the club in the long run." Under Verbeek, Heerenveen have finished fifth twice and seventh once. The Friesland team, currently third in the Eredivisie, have qualified for Europe for three consecutive campaigns.