Austria coach resigns after Euro 2008 exit

 

  VIENNA, June 24 (Xinhua) -- Austria coach Josef Hickersberger has announced his resignation after the co-hosts suffered a first round exited from Euro 2008, said local media on Tuesday.

    Austrian newspaper Der Standard said in an interview that Hickersberger decided to leave the post though the Austrian Football Federation has been due to make a decision on his future.

    "I am stopping... I feel empty and tired, I need to take a break and recharge the batteries," said the 60-year-old, who had intended to remain as Austria coach but later changed his mind. His contract was due to expire in December.

    The co-hosts took just one point and scored one goal in their Group B matches against Croatia, Poland and Germany, a result tighter than expected and having disappointed many home supporters.

    "The chapter is closed. My mission has been accomplished. I have reflected long and hard," he said, adding that the previous stay decision was made on under pressure from his players.

    Hickersberger's resignation marked the end of his second spell at the helm of his national team. After featuring in Austria's golden moment of defeating Germany at the 1978 World Cup in Cordoba, Argentina, Hickersberger led his side to the 1990 edition of the competition in Italy.

    The former Austrian midfielder took up the reigns again early in 2006, when he replaced legendary Austrian striker Hans Krankl as manager. Under his charge, the Austrians won only five of 27 matches, the worst record for an Austrian coach since 1945.

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