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Sacked Glory coach hires lawyers

UPDATE: Former Perth Glory coach Alistair Edwards has vowed not to enter into a public war of words with the club after being sacked in controversial circumstances this week.

Edwards, unhappy with the manner in which he was dismissed this week, has engaged the services of a London-based lawyer and is taking legal action against Glory.

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The former Glory striker was sacked as coach just nine months into a three-year deal following a bitter feud between coaching staff and senior players.

At the heart of the feud was a personal dispute between Edwards and long-time club captain Jacob Burns.

In a statement made on Thursday night to thewest.com.au and other media outlets, Edwards said he did not wish to enter a slanging match with the club.

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“I am not minded to engage in a public war of words with the chairman (club owner Tony Sage) or the representatives of the club,” Edwards said.

“The current practicalities of the situation are in the hands of my agent, Daniel Berman.

“For my part, I remain concerned about the standing and reputation of the club, and West Australian football.

“I am confident that the people who know me, and those who have followed my career, will know that I am committed to the development of the sport in our country.

“I have had strong messages of support from Hyundai A League colleagues and other important figures in the Australian football establishment, for which I am grateful.

“I appreciate the kindness of well-wishers, and it means a great deal to me that my integrity has been recognised by many people in football and the fans alike.”

One of the key factors in the dispute between coaching staff and senior players was the players’ concern over perceived nepotism shown by Edwards towards his sons, Cameron and Ryan.

Chief executive Jason Brewer said he expected both Cameron and Ryan Edwards to see out their contracts with the club, and Alistair Edwards said his sons would follow his lead in regards to public commentary on the awkward situation.

“My sons will continue to work to the best of their ability,” Edwards said.

“Similarly, they will not be exacerbating a regrettable situation with any public utterances.”

Glory will name an interim coach this afternoon, in time for Sunday’s clash with Adelaide United at nib Stadium.

The hunt for a full-time coach is expected to take several weeks.

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