LASK president

“Insane rule”: This is how Gruber explains the license problem

LASK president Siegmund Gruber(Bild: GEPA pictures)

There is chaos at LASK! First the last-minute change of head coach to Thomas Darasz caused confusion, then the club was denied a license for the coming season in the first instance. Before the clash with Red Bull Salzburg, LASK president Siegmund Gruber commented on the issue: "There is a very insane rule in the league."

As the "Krone" reported, LASK changed the name of their coach again after 36 hours and now have their third head coach within two days: on Wednesday morning it was Thomas Sageder, from Wednesday afternoon until Thursday evening it was 30-year-old Max Ritscher, who also prepared the team for the Salzburg game. However, Thomas Darasz is now coaching the team. For licensing reasons, as the LASK announced.

"We didn't take the decision lightly. We sat down together on Sunday evening and also had several discussions on Monday and realized that we had to pull the ripcord," said LASK boss Gruber on Sky.

How did the confusion surrounding the change of coach come about? Gruber: "There is a very insane rule in the league. Between applying for a license and being granted a license, i.e. between 8 March and 12 April, the coach must have a UEFA Pro license."

"We quickly improved that. We changed the system from Sageder to Darasz. Then we also clarified the whole thing in a press release. But apparently this was not appreciated by Senate 5. Now we will deal with the whole thing in a protest next week."

"I hope the gentlemen know what they are doing"
Gruber continued: "I don't understand what's happening here. It's a bureaucratic hurdle race that's going on here, but please. I hope these people know what they're doing. Sometimes I don't believe it.

Sky expert Peter Stöger spoke of a minor problem, but "damage to LASK's image".

A win against Red Bull Salzburg(LIVE HERE) could at least restore some calm in Linz. They are currently tied with Rapid in fourth place with 21 points.