Derek King has been appointed as the caretaker coach of the Trinidad and Tobago senior men’s football team, the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) announced on Monday.
King brings a wealth of experience, having served as assistant to outgoing head coach Angus Eve, who was sacked last week Wednesday.
A former national defender, King also was assistant to Stephen Hart, under whom T&T reached consecutive Gold Cup quarter-finals, in 2013 and 2015, while also attaining a FIFA ranking of 49.
King first served in the position as assistant coach to Hart in 2012 and also in a similar capacity at Halifax Wanderers, a Canadian Premier League club.
King takes charge of the T&T team immediately and will oversee preparations for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League matches, next month against Honduras and French Guiana.
According to the TTFA release, King’s familiarity with the players and the team’s dynamics position him well to lead the squad during this transition period. King has an impressive track record as a head coach.
He notably led the National Under-20 men to victory in the 2014 Caribbean Championship, showcasing his ability to guide and develop young talent. Locally, he has also guided Joe Public and Santa Rosa FC to TT Pro League and National Super League titles.
King’s immediate focus will be on preparing the team for their crucial Nations League fixtures. “The TTFA is confident in his ability to steer the team towards success in these important matches while the search for a new full-time head coach continues,” the TTFA stated. “The TTFA extends its best wishes to Derek King and the men’s senior team as they embark on this new chapter.”
King commented: “I am honoured to take on this responsibility and lead our national team during this important time.”
“Our immediate focus is on the upcoming Nations League matches, and I am confident that with good planning, hard work and dedication, we can achieve positive results. I look forward to working closely with the players and staff to ensure we get the results and performances we all desire.”
SOURCE: T&T Express