Central Coast Mariners boss Peter Turnbull has moved to silence speculation about the future of coach Graham Arnold, noting the Mariners have offered him a new deal and a pay rise.
Central Coast Mariners boss Peter Turnbull has moved to silence speculation about the future of coach Graham Arnold, noting the Mariners have offered him a new deal and a pay rise.
Turnbull took the extraordinary step of writing a letter to his members as to calm them about Arnold’s future with some reports suggestion he had all but moved on to a role at Sydney FC.
“There has been a substantial amount of media speculation recently suggesting that Graham Arnold has already signed with Sydney FC,” Turnbull wrote.
“In fact, what is true is that Sydney have tabled a very substantial offer for ‘Arnie-, which he is considering. However, we have recently lodged what we consider to be a very attractive counter-offer and have been speaking with Graham at every available opportunity.”
“What must also be remembered is that in the case of the Mariners, we have had Finals Series football and the AFC Champions League to play in recent weeks. As such, we have needed to be mindful not to interfere in any way with the teams- preparation as we have a clear desire to excel in every competition in which we compete.”
“Our offer for Graham Arnold to remain as Head Coach of our club is for an increased amount, and for an additional season. Ultimately, it will be Arnie-s decision, and whatever decision he makes we will support him, as we do with all our coaches and players. That is the nature of our club.”
Turnbull also made an impassioned plea for Mariners’ fans to turn out in droves to support the team and Arnold who need a win over Tianjin Teda to stay in ACL contention.
“It would be great for Members and fans to turn up in force tomorrow night to show their support for Arnie and urge him to stay at the helm of our first team. We have a crucial game against Chinese Super League side Tianjin Teda at Central Coast Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 7:30pm.”
