Waseige - not under pressure (Allsport)
BELGIUM DENY UNREST IN CAMP
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Belgium soccer chiefs have dismissed media
reports that coach Robert Waseige has "lost all authority" among the players.
Waseige, who has already stated he will quit to take over at Standard Liege
after the World Cup, has come under heavy criticism for his player selection and
tactics after the Belgians have struggled to disappointing draws in their first
two matches against Japan and Tunisia.
A report in Flemmish daily Het Nieuwsblad yesterday claimed that Waseige had
lost the respect of the players, with only captain Mark Wilmots prepared to
stand by his coach.
But the Belgians held a crisis meeting yesterday between three Belgian FA
officials, four coaches and six players.
"The players are not accepting this," said Belgian FA president Jan Peeters
of the controversial article written by prominent Belgian sports writer Francois
Colin.
"Maybe one player has voiced his discontent to the press, but publishing such
an article a few days before an important mach is way out of line."
According to Peeters, the majority of players do not agree with what has been
said about Waseige and have decided not to talk to the press until after
Friday's crucial match against Russia.
Belgium lie third in Group H, one point adrift of second-placed Russia and go
into their final game against the Russians needing a win.
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