Gambia gets new coach

Paul Put ready for Gambia challenge

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africa » gambia » kotu

Wednesday, May 21, 2008
New Gambia coach Belgian Paul Put believes he has what it takes to not only guide the Scorpions to the 2010 South Africa World Cup finals, but also to resurrect the future of Gambian football.

In his maiden public statement shortly after signing a one-year deal (subject to renewal) with The Gambia Football Association yesterday, the 52-year-old Belgian said he is delighted to have bagged the Scorpions job, noting that with all hands on deck, the Scorpions will qualify for the 2010 finals.

“I am happy and proud to be the coach of The Gambia. I know I have a big challenge ahead, but I will try and put the team on the right track - knowing the quality of the players,” revealed the former SK Lierse coach at yesterday’s signing ceremony held at President Jammeh Joint Officers’ Mess at Kotu.

“You can count on me for two hundred percent, and I will also count on you for the necessary support.”

“The Scorpions could be great team and we shall achieve this if we all work together. To win will be bigger than to be afraid to lose,” he said.

Paul Put is recognised as a seasoned coach with a good track record in his home country, having enjoyed success with Tubanta, St Nicolas, Lokeren and SK Lierse.

The Belgian will be in Gambia dug-out for the first time when the Scorpions square-up against their West African counterparts, Liberia, in the Group Six opener on June 1.




by Nanama Keita

Fan Club Seeks Assistance to Finance Travel to Support Scorpions

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africa » gambia

Wednesday, May 21, 2008


The president of the National Scorpion Fan Club has made an appeal to stakeholders in football development, especially the private sector, to assist them with the heavy travel expenses and get them to Liberia to see the country’s first appearance in 2010 qualifiers.

Speaking to Pointsports, he said their presence in Monrovia is crucial as the team needs support and encouragement.

He commended The Gambia football Association and Africell for successful going into hiring the services of the coach for the senior national team for the first time.

“I believe this has also put another milestone in the history of Gambian football which will serve as a boost to all Gambians,” he stated.

Cham noted that President Jammeh has been sending fans to cheer up the national teams and called on the private sector for emulation in order to compliment his efforts.

He said the fan club is working on decentralising its membership so that every part of the country will be represented in the club.

“The National scorpion fan club is a well known group that is dedicated to the success of Gambian football,” he pointed out.

In conclusion Cham made a special appeal to Africell to aid them in their efforts to travel and see the Scorpions in Liberia.
By Sainabou Kujabi
Picture: Bai Cham (President of the Scorpion Fans Club)