Shanghai Shenhua have given Nicolas Anelka his first step into coaching as he aims to end their poor start to the season.
Former Chelsea striker appointed coach at Shanghai Shenhua
Shanghai Shenhua have given Nicolas Anelka his first step into coaching as he aims to end their poor start to the season.
The former Chelsea striker moved to the Chinese Super League in January and has scored two goals for the club.
But new manager Jean Tigana has not had a successful beginning after taking over for the new season, having won just once in his opening five games.
They were expected to challenge at the top of the table this term, but their disappointing start has led to speculation that Tigana would be sacked.
Anelka was made team captain for the campaign and will now combine his role on the pitch with a coaching role behind the scenes.
Expectations
A club statement read: "Due to the team's recent record which has not met the expectations and demands of the club's fans, media and other parties and the fact the foreign players are in urgent need of high-quality training the club has made the decision to replace some members of the coaching staff.
"The club will introduce four coaches from the United Kingdom and France to join the coaching staff to provide the necessary training support to ensure the competitive state of the players.
"In addition, the team captain Nicolas Anelka will coach and participate in the team's daily training management."
Anelka confirmed the move himself on his official Twitter feed @anelkaofficiel: "It's official I just become (sic) the new player-manager of Shanghai Shenhua."
