Off-colour PSV accept Stevens' resignation

Huub Stevens has resigned as coach of Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven after barely six months in charge with the club revealing that: "It's the coach's opinion that there is no real 'click' between him and the players."

Club statement
The 55-year-old's resignation was accepted by the PSV board with his side lying fifth in the Eredivisie, 15 points adrift of league leaders AZ Alkmaar, having bowed out of Europe as the bottom side in UEFA Champions League Group D. A club statement read: "It's the coach's opinion that there is no real 'click' between him and the players, despite huge effort and many attempts to improve matters.

Inadequate relationship
"PSV and Huub Stevens regret to admit that the relationship and trust between coach and squad are not at a high enough level to encourage the best performances," it continued. "Stevens has offered his resignation in the best interests of PSV. The management regrets his decision, but respects it. They have done everything possible to give maximum support to Stevens and prevent a situation like this."

Summer appointment
The former PSV defender joined the club in the summer following a season in Germany with Hamburger SV. However, PSV's quest for a fifth successive Dutch title seems to be foundering, with fans turning on the former Roda JC, FC Schalke 04, Hertha BSC Berlin and 1. FC Köln coach after Saturday's 2-2 draw at home against NAC Breda. PSV have yet to announce a replacement for Stevens.