Football

No contract extensions for Kedah players, coaches

KEDAH overcame adversities to qualify for next season's AFC Cup by finishing runners-up to Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) in the Super League.

However, despite the commendable achievement, Kedah have not offered contract extensions to their players and coaches.

Their contracts will expire at the end of the month.

However, Kedah FA (KFA) honorary secretary Firdaus Ahmad has guaranteed that contract negotiations will begin soon.

"We recently settled our debts totaling RM3.8 million. We are now discussing our plans for next season.

"The plan is to reevaluate the structure of the team and also lower some costs (reduction in players' salaries) as we do not want to spend beyond our means.

"However, we will retain 70 to 80 per cent of our squad, but we have not spoken to the coaches and players about it.

"This is because there needs to be check and balance done on the existing contracts.

"Furthermore, we want to see what they can contribute off the pitch.

"Besides playing football, we want to see what the players can offer in terms of helping out in our corporate social responsibility programmes, sales and promotions," said Firdaus.

Although the KFA owed the players five months in salary arrears during the season (which were eventually settled), they put their problems aside to help their team do well in the Super League.

However, Firdaus said when it comes to contract talks, these sentiments are not pertinent.

It is also learnt that coach Aidil Sharin Sahak has yet to sign a two-year extension deal as he has also received offers from other Super League teams.

Firdaus neither confirmed nor denied it, but stressed that they have no power to stop any team members from leaving.

"To me, it's simple. When Azraai Khor, who led Kedah to double treble seasons (2007-08), left for Young Tigers A, the team still performed.

"The harmony and attitude in the team allow Kedah to succeed.

"Of course, having a good coach is important in preparing the team, but the players also contribute a lot to ensure success.

"So, if a coach is ready to get on board our flawed cruise ship, we will welcome him to stay.

"Kedah are not a rich team. We cannot offer high salaries as we do not have other businesses.

"We have to spend wisely, but if possible, we want him (Aidil) to stay," he added.

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