China part ways with Camacho

Coach Jose Antonio Camacho has been sacked by China, the country’s football association announced on Monday.

The 58-year-old Spaniard has been in the role since 2011 and the decision comes after his side experienced a humiliating 5-1 defeat to Thailand in a friendly last week.

The statement from the Chinese Football Association, carried by state news agency Xinhua, said: “Having consulted with related parties and informed coach Camacho, the authority made a primary decision of terminating the cooperation with the Spaniard.

“Details are yet to be negotiated with Camacho and the seeking of his successor has been initiated.”

Speculation had been rife around the former Real Madrid player’s future since he led China to an all-time low of 109th in the FIFA World rankings in March.

The termination of his contract is reportedly set to net Camacho around €3 million (£2.6m) in compensation.