South Korea axe Klinsmann in wake of Asian Cup exit

Jurgen Klinsmann has been sacked as South Korea boss after just a year in charge. 

The former Tottenham favourite, who previously managed his native Germany and the USA, had been under fire since his side were beaten by Jordan in the semi-finals of the Asian Cup earlier this month.

Klinsmann, 59, has faced criticism for continuing to base himself in Los Angeles and reports of in-fighting among the squad also chipped away at his authority. 

Chung Mong-gyu, president of the Korean Football Association, delivered a withering assessment of the outgoing boss. 

He said: "Coach Klinsmann failed to demonstrate the coaching ability and leadership we expect from a coach of the Korean national team, such as game management, player management and work attitude that lead to the national team's competitiveness. 

"As a result of various discussions and opinions, coach Klinsmann's competitiveness and attitude as a coach did not meet the expectations and sentiments of the people and it was judged that it would be difficult to improve in the future. 

"It is time to reorganise the national soccer team."

Reacting to his dismissal on X, formerly Twitter, Klinsmann said: "To all players, my coaching staff and all Korean football fans with sincere gratitude! 

"Thank you so much for all your support taking us to the semi-finals of the Asian Cup and an incredible journey over the last 12 months with not losing 13 games in a row! 

"Keep on fighting."

Korea's Asian Cup challenge was ended by a 2-0 defeat to Jordan, who went on to lose the final 2-1 to Qatar.