The dismissal of Danny Buijs comes as no surprise after the series of bad results. The club lost successively to Gent, Anderlecht and Club Brugge and after 12 matchdays is in 13th place, barely 1 point from the relegation zone. Now that a busy period is approaching, the board has made a decision.
“Danny Buijs had absolutely no easy task as Wouter Vrancken’s successor,” says CEO Frank Lagast. “We really believed in a long-term partnership, because Danny is a football animal with a lot of football knowledge and strong communication. However, the results did not follow and that is why we are making this decision.”
Steven Defour, one of Buijs’ assistants, takes over. Not temporarily, but permanently. “I’m really looking forward to it. Becoming a trainer at the club of my heart is of course a dream. I will fully accept the challenge with this group of players,” he responded briefly.
This week, Defour has to work with the team twice at home, against Standard and Eupen.
On the club website, the management confirms its confidence in the current sporting staff and the players’ core. “There is enough quality in this group of players, even if the results and the way of playing may not show that.”
“We realize that not everything will be solved quickly. We would also like to thank our supporters for their unwavering support during the past matches.”
