Clark: Leopards can beat the chop without me

Former Black Leopards manager Alan Clark



Alan Clark feels Black Leopards are in a good position to avoid relegation without him at the helm.

Clark announced his decision to leave the struggling Premiership side for a coaching role in Europe.

Competitive football returns in South Africa after a four-month hiatus, as a result of the coronavirus, on August 8 2020.

But Leopards will need to secure their survival without Clark, who admits the timing of his departure is unfortunate.

Speaking to the Sowetan, Clark said: “Yes, I have resigned with immediate effect.

“I had to see what was going to happen with regards to the resumption of play. I got an exciting coaching opportunity in Europe and I have accepted it.”

Clark added: “I will be leaving SA in the next few days with my family. However, I must say that Leopards are ready and I am optimistic that they’ll beat the chop, even without me.

“It’s unfortunate about the timing of my departure, but I am grateful for the opportunity the club gave me.

“I just want to be the first SA coach to work in Europe.

“The club that I am joining want to compete in the Europa League and the Champions League and I want to be part of that. I don’t know any SA coach who got that opportunity. For now I can’t tell you which country or team I am going to.”

Leopards entered the enforced break, at the bottom of Premiership standings, with 20 points from 24 games.