Gerard Jones has denied reports that he has been dismissed as Bangladesh Under-20 coach, saying the Bangladesh Football Federation has not informed him of any decision to terminate his tenure.
Speculation about Jones’ future intensified on Tuesday after reports emerged that the English coach had been sacked ahead of Bangladesh’s departure for Uzbekistan for the AFC Under-20 Asian Cup qualifiers. The BFF, however, has not issued any official statement confirming his dismissal.
Jones addressed the reports in a video posted on his Facebook page, questioning the source of the claims and their impact on the team.
“I have not been told anything by the federation about being dismissed. I do not know where this information is coming from either,” Jones said. “But the question is, what is the point of doing this? Why would anyone post false or incorrect information and try to disrupt the harmony of the team?”
The uncertainty comes after an incident at the Under-20 team hotel last Wednesday involving Jones and assistant coach Atiqur Rahman Mishu. The two coaches reportedly had a heated exchange which later turned physical. Jones subsequently called the national emergency service 999 and requested police assistance.
The incident prompted the BFF’s Development Committee to launch an investigation. Jones could face disciplinary action if the allegations against him are established.
A BFF source previously indicated that disciplinary action could also affect Jones’ involvement in the upcoming qualifiers in Uzbekistan. Bangladesh are scheduled to begin their campaign on August 31 and are due to leave for Uzbekistan on Wednesday.
Jones said the situation was unlike anything he had experienced during his football career.
“I have never experienced anything like this in my football career before,” he said. “But hopefully, in 10 years’ time, I will be able to look back and laugh about it.”
With the team set to travel shortly, the uncertainty over the coaching position has added another issue for Bangladesh to resolve before the qualifiers begin. The BFF’s investigation is expected to determine Jones’ immediate future with the Under-20 side.
