Coach Nguyen Duc Thang wants to say goodbye with Song Lam Nghe An. — Photo vietnamnet.vn

HA NOI (VNS) — Nguyen Huu Thang has reportedly resigned as the head coach of V-League side Song Lam Nghe An.

The former national defender was quoted as saying on bongdaplus.vn that he sent his request to the club owners at the beginning of this month, but it has not been approved yet as they were busy with a meet.

"I thought a lot before making the decision, because Nghe An have a key place in my heart. However, it is time to rest," Thang said.

The 42-year-old coach added that he wanted to join a coach-training course to improve his skills and knowledge.

Thang was recently invited to join a course for coaches in Germany.

"I will go abroad for study and will soon be back. Taking charge of a local team is always my top priority," he said.

Thang started working with Nghe An in 2009 and helped the team to win the National Cup in 2010, a V-League title in 2011 and a Super Cup a year later.

Thang used to be the first choice of the national team in the 1990s. He was trained as a player and grew up with Nghe An.

Le Hong Thanh, general director of the Song Lam Nghe An Football Joinstock Company, said that he had not met Thang yet, but confirmed that the coach was a talented trainer who won not only the players' but also fans' hearts.

"He left a strong impression during his five years with us. Thanks to him, we won three important titles. It is difficult to find a good coach to replace him. However, we respect his decision and will let him go," Thanh said on the website.

Song Lam Nghe An players also expressed their regret about Thang's departure.

"He is my idol and of other players. For a long time, he was a strong force who pushed me to play better and stronger. His departure is a big loss for the team. I hope he will think again because we are in a difficult situation," midfielder Ngo Hoang Thinh was quoted as.

Song Lam Nghe An finished fifth in the last season. They are facing shortage of funds and are failing to retain their key players. Last month, three-time Golden Ball winner Le Cong Vinh ended his contract there and joined champions Becamex Binh Duong. — VNS