Frank Bernhardt named new UiTM FC head coach

SHAH ALAM, Jan 3 (Bernama) -- Former national Under-23 (B23) football coach Frank Bernhardt has been named as the new head coach of UiTM FC for the upcoming Super League season kicking off on Feb 28.

UiTM FC president Prof Dr Azizan Abdullah said the German coach had signed a season-long contract with The Lion Troops.

“Frank Bernhardt has a wealth of experience (in the local football league) and I believe his experience will help to improve the performance of the team who comprised mainly university players.

“As UiTM FC progresses to the Super League (for the 2020 season), we will compete with the stronger teams. So, our goal this time is to be in the top eight, and be in contention to win Malaysia Cup,” he said at a press conference here today.

University Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sports Centre director and UiTM FC team manager Mustazah Ahmad, was also present.

Meanwhile, Frank said he was thrilled to return to Malaysia and take on the challenge of coaching UiTM FC.

“I have been with the team (UiTM FC) for three weeks, and currently we have 50 players...there are still some familiar faces, but some have left the team. I'm still in the process of getting to know the players before introducing them to new training techniques.

"The list of local and import players will be finalised by the middle of this month, all previous weaknesses will be addressed to ensure UiTM FC remain among the top teams in the Super League this season," he said.

UiTM FC made history in the national football league when it became the first institution of higher learning to play in the Super League.

The Lion Troops will fill the void left by PKNS FC, who have merged with the Selangor football team.

UiTM FC finished fifth in the Premier League last season with 29 points, ahead of sixth-placed Negeri Sembilan on goal difference.

-- BERNAMA