Former Orlando Pirates coach takes over Mpumalanga Black Aces

17 June 2016 - 15:38 By Nick Said

New Mpumalanga Black Aces owner John Comitis says he is buildng a “formidable” technical team at the newly-relocated club after the appointment of Eric Tinkler as head coach on a three-year deal. Tinkler was announced as the Cape Town team’s new coach on Friday‚ essentially swapping positions with Muhsin Ertugral‚ who has moved into Tinkler’s former role as coach of Orlando Pirates.Ertugral had been Comitis’ first choice to take up the role‚ but he says once Tinkler became available he had no hesitation in making a move for him. “To find such a highly qualified coach in South African football is rare‚” Comitis told Times Media Digital.“Most coaches are qualified by experience only‚ but Eric has a UEFA Pro License and is exactly what we need – a person who can structure the club to match European standards.“He is a methodical coach who can build this club from the bottom up. He also comes with an academic way of thinking and so when he was available it became a very easy decision for me.“That’s why I have given him a straight three-year contract‚ there are no options or anything like that. Because I believe that with the team I have behind him‚ he will be very successful for this football club.” Tinkler will be assisted by former Ajax Cape Town coach Ian Taylor and goalkeeper coach Calvin Marlin.Times Media Digital can also exclusively reveal that Craig Rosslee has been appointed as Director of Football to provide further support for Tinkler.Photo by Duif du Toit/Gallo ImagesCraig Rosslee“Craig has the experience of working with five different PSL clubs and will provide a sounding board on the first team and all structures of the club‚” Comitis says.“There are no poilitics in my club‚” he added without prompting.Comitis also revealed that a Dutch sports scientist will be joining the technical team.“He is of the highest quality back in Holland. I won’t reveal his name‚ we will tell all at the official unveiling of the club on June 29.”- TMG Digital..

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