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The decision of the Lithuanian national football team coaches has once again sparked a storm of discussion.
Not only Deividas Šemberas and Tomas Danilevičius were not invited to the upcoming World Cup qualifying matches, but also Marius Stankevičius, Žydrūnas Karčemarskas, and Edgaras Česnauskis. Former national team coach Algimantas Liubinskas spoke about the strange situation in the country's football on "Žinių radijas" radio on Thursday.
“Is the decision to abandon all leaders not seem too drastic?” – “Žinių radijas” asked A. Liubinskas.
“It is unclear whether this is the coach's or the federation's position. This question has always prevailed. I remember that during my time, Liutauras Varanavičius, who faithfully served Vladimir Romanov, would come and say that I should coordinate the list of national team candidates with V.Romanov. I just laughed. Because of this, I ruined relationships with both.
If this is the coaches' decision, maybe they no longer see a perspective in this team, trying to build a new team. However, right after the drawing of lots, it was clear that we would be competing with the Latvians, so changes could have been made earlier.
“In your opinion, is this the coach's decision or the LFF's decision?”
“I don't think J.Kvedaras himself has an influence. There is a gray cardinal in the federation, Stasys Stankus, who actively tries to express his opinion and has a great influence. It is difficult to say whether it is the coach's decision or that of others.
“Marius Stankevičius said that the federation is trying to silence players who criticize it. What do you think about this?”
“My opinion is simple: generational change must take place in the federation as well. If this generation of footballers unites and participates in elections, they can bring about change, as change is necessary. There has been a long-standing stagnation in football. Some individuals who have long held their positions should consider whether it is time to leave with dignity.
“Who could become the new national team coach?”
“Most likely, it will not be a sought-after good coach, but tactical moves related to the upcoming elections and aiming to maintain their positions for those individuals who are clinging to their seats.”
