A recent management crisis at Cambodian Premier League (CPL) side Kirivong Sok Sen Chey has seen the resignation of club President Leang Khun and coach Andrew Ehiwarior. According to vice President Somay Sokea, the President has decided to resign “due to some interference within the club that did not go down well with him.” The Nigerian born Ehiwarior cited similar reasons for his departure, just two months into his year long appointment at the Takeo based side, adding that management has failed to meet contractual obligations. “Rather than me staying and not giving my best, I have decided to leave,” he remarked.

Assistant coach Lean Chansaren will now take care of the team as they head to Kep for the start of the 2010 Samdech Hun Sen Cup campaign, which sees them face relegated CPL rivals Phouchung Neak in the opening match January 8.

Ith Sok, Deputy Governor of Takeo, is purported to take over as the president of Kirivong Sok Sen Chey pending the approval of main sponsor Sok An, while Lean Khon has pledged to continue supporting the club.

CPL stars head to Thailand

Thai football club Loei City FC has signed players Alex Ikeduba and Tunji Ayoyinka from CPL side Phnom Penh Crown following off-season trials held in the Thailand. The Nigerian born duo have declined to reveal the details of their contracts, but noted the benefits of playing in Thailand.

“The pay is much better than what I got in Cambodia for the two seasons I have been here, and the move will also give me more exposure as the Thai league is much more developed than the Cambodia League,” said Ikeduba.

For Ayoyinka, who had unsuccessfully pursued a contract in Turkey during the 2009 CPL season, the move to Thailand is a welcome opportunity.

“It is not really what I wanted, but its a huge leap for me, and hopefully will help to launch me further in my career,” he said. “Its a good deal compared to what we get [in Cambodia], besides, the team plays about 32 games in the league and also take part in two other cup competitions which will afford us the chance to get more exposure.”

Loei City FC were founded this year, winning the third tier regional Northeast division 2 which was also in its inaugural year. As champions, they were granted entry into the 2009 Regional League Championships, in which they came agonisingly short of a Premier League birth.

Both Nigerian players are set to join their new club at training on January 4 when the preseason preparations begin.