Editor's note: Details have been added after the third paragraph
Azerbaijan, Baku, May 12 / Trend M. Aliyev /
Today, Azerbaijani professional football club "Gabala" introduced new executive director Alistair Saverimotto and new head coach of the club Tony Adams to the public.
"Football club 'Gabala' has great ambitions. Our goal is to achieve lasting and professional development. The basis for this is the development of child's football. 'Gabala' has its own football academy. We are satisfied with progress achieved by our young sportsmen in the age groups - 13, 15, 17 during a year and a half, who are leaders in Azerbaijan's championships.
Moreover, we plan to create a professional infrastructure, a new soccer complex. The design is ready. We attracted successful manager of English football club Everton to implement the development strategy of "Gabala", the president of the club Tale Heydarov said at a launching ceremony.
New head coach Tony Adams said that e is extremely pleased to participate in such a fantastic project, and looks forward to begin the work. "I am honored to take this opportunity and lead this club to the very highest international standards. Members of the club fully satisfy me. Now we are really creating the history," Adams said.
He said that he is in Azerbaijan for nine months to assess the project, as well as to become more familiar with the culture of the country.
"This proposal is a unique opportunity for me to build a club founded on a solid infrastructure, technique and professionalism. Our challenges are very difficult. But I am sure that it will not be an obstacle for us. Our three-five-year strategic plan will be implemented successfully, " he said.
Tony Adams is the legendary footballer of London club 'Arsenal' and English team. He became a champion of England as a part of Arsenal four times, English Cup winner three times, Football League Cup - twice, English Super Cup - three times, UEFA Cup - three times. He trained English club Portsmouth.
Gabala club new executive director Alistair Saverimotto noted positive trends in the development of football in Azerbaijan. He expressed confidence that Azerbaijani football players will be trained in Europe in the nearest years.
"But football is not just a game. It is a big business. Besides good infrastructure, it is necessary to prepare domestic staff, who would work there. We will continue to make efforts in this direction," he said.
