Van Egmond turns down Sydney

Newcastle have hit out at Sydney FC after the struggling Sky Blues made a cheeky approach to Jets coach Gary van Egmond.

Sydney have been coached by interim boss Steve Corica for the last two matches since Ian Crook resigned from his position, reportedly for health reasons after his side conceded a two-goal lead in a 3-2 loss to Melbourne Victory.

Before Crook’s appointment, van Egmond was reportedly sounded out for the job at the Sky Blues, and the Sydney side came knocking once again over the last few weeks as they look to appoint their sixth coach in eight seasons of competition.

But the Jets coach has opted to remain at Newcastle, with the club incensed that an approach was even made.

“Gary is a great coach and it is a massive compliment that Sydney FC would be chasing his services,” chief executive Robbie Middleby told the Jets website.

“In saying that, we feel it is disrespectful to approach a contracted coach to leave any club at this point in a season.

“Gary has made it clear he is remaining loyal and staying here to continue what he has started, including the development of our exciting young players and in particular, growing the Emerging Jets Program.”