The Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) appeared angry and annoyed over the attitude of head coach Lodewijk de Kruif and assistant coach Rene Koster as the Dutch duo complained over their living standards at BKSP. The Dutch coaches are currently conducting a residential camp for the national under-23 side ahead of the forthcoming 17th Asian Games.
Earlier on Wednesday, De Kruif told the media the living standards of the BKSP International Hostel is horrible and it is impossible for them to reside in it. The 44-year old head coach also accused that the BFF has failed to keep their promise of clearing all their dues following their arrival. The rooms of the national coaches were reportedly not up to the mark. But later, as claimed by the BFF, the rooms were thoroughly cleaned and all the necessary utilities were inducted.
The reports stirred the BFF and its president Kazi Salahuddin. “The president rang me and asked me what happened. He asked me why the coaches were saying things like that,” said BFF general secretary Abu Naeem Shohag.
“We cleared their three months’ dues and they will receive their upcoming month’s salary in the first week of next month. They agreed upon the deal at the president’s residence in the meeting after their arrival. Now they are saying things like that. I have heard that they dubbed the BFF as liars. Is this the approach of a professional coach?” said a frustrated Shohag.
It was learned the BFF has handed over an amount in the region of $90,198 to realise the three months’ dues owed by the Dutch coaches. “The way they talk adds insult to our country and the federation. We have limitations and lack of resources but they also have to remember that it is Bangladesh not Holland. We have tried our best to provide all the necessary ingredients for them. The bed sheets and pillows have been changed. The room now has a mini-refrigerator. Adequate foods have been supplied. A blender and two electric kettles have also been delivered. We have tried our best to create a convenient atmosphere,” said Shohag.
While commenting upon the latest round of events Salahuddin said it is not the ideal situation to inspire a team. “If the coach remains unhappy and keep complaining how will he motivate the players. The players are not complaining. The coaches are complaining about their living standards. I do not like the situation. We are asking for commitments, not complaints,” said Salahuddin.
However, the angry reaction hardly made De Kruif regret as he said to Dhaka Tribune yesterday, “I m not bothered over the reaction of the BFF president over my comments. What I want to say, the BFF president should come and see the situation himself.”
The BFF is treating the issue seriously and vice president Tabith Awal, also a member of the national teams committee, will go to BKSP tomorrow to talk with the coaches.
