Sharjah: An emotional Stephen Constantine announced his resignation as head coach of India following his team’s exit from the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 on Monday.
India finished at the bottom of Group A following their 1-0 defeat to Bahrain and the Englishman said it was time to call it a day.
“I’m stepping down after this game. I’ve been here for four years, my objective from day one was to qualify for the AFC Asian Cup. I’ve done that and I’m exceptionally proud of the players for everything they have given.
“I want to thank the AIFF (All India Football Federation) because the support they have given me in the last four years has been huge.”
India began their UAE 2019 campaign with a resounding 4-1 win over Thailand but suffered a 2-0 loss against United Arab Emirates on Matchday Two.
Constantine, who previously coached India for three years from 2002 till 2005, returned as head coach in 2015.
“I think my cycle has finished. I did what I was asked to and a little bit more and after four years, I think it’s time to leave.
“I’m sad to be leaving, the players and staff have been fantastic throughout the tournament. Even those who failed to make the final squad.
“It’s my wife’s birthday today and I haven’t been back to my house in six years. I’ve only seen my three daughters every three or four months and the time has come for me to move on," said Constantine as he ended the post-match press conference in tears.
Source: the-afc.com