Victory sack Durakovic

Melbourne Victory have sacked coach Mehmet Durakovic, with Kevin Muscat taking over as caretaker for this weekend’s match against Newcastle.

Chairman Anthony Di Pietro and Managing Director Richard Wilson were in attendance at a press conference at AAMI Park in Melbourne where it was announced that Durakovic’s contract had been terminated.

“We’ve been successful in the brand development and financial management, but unfortunately in relation to recruitment there’s always risk,” Di Pietro said.

“No matter how good your due diligence there is always risk with appointments. But we’re being proactive about change.”

“We have given Mehmet every opportunity to succeed this season, but we found we were inconsistent and the team lacked direction.”

“Mehmet is a wonderful person of high integrity, who has my full respect on a personal and professional level. This is always difficult but it’s a professional decision.”

It is believed Durakovic was told of his axing early on Friday after a series of board meetings in recent days.

Former Victory captain Muscat will take the reins at the weekend, with a new head coach expected to be announced in the next week.

Despite a star-studded squad including the likes of Harry Kewell, Carlos Hernandez and Archie Thompson, Victory are languishing in eighth place of the A-League with just three wins from 14 matches.

Durakovic was in the job for less than six months after taking over from Ernie Merrick at the start of the season.