Graham Arnold has knocked back a lucrative offer from Sydney FC to stay on as coach of Central Coast Mariners.
Graham Arnold has knocked back a lucrative offer from Sydney FC to stay on as coach of Central Coast Mariners.
It is understood Sydney FC had given Arnold until 5pm on Monday May 7 to sign on with them, but Arnold wanted to wait until after the Mariners had finished their current AFC Champions League campaign.
Arnold’s new deal will see him stay at the Mariners on an extended deal which will see through until the end of the 2014 season.
Arnold was relieved to have finally made the decision on an issue which has played pit heavily in the press.
“It-s been a tough decision and I am hugely flattered by the interest I received from Sydney FC,” Arnold said.
“I am very grateful to Gary Cole from Sydney who has been extremely professional, understanding and respectful throughout this process.”
“But two years ago I signed a three year contract with the Mariners, and I have decided to see that three year term out out of loyalty and respect of the players, Chairman, staff and supporters.”
“We had a fantastic season and it is a big incentive to compete in the AFC Champions League again next year.”
“Already my main focus is on recruitment for next season but also next week against Nagoya (Grampus) in Japan,” he concluded.
