Anelka becomes player-coach as Shanghai Shenhua move on assistants

12/04/2012 2:59:00 PM

The former France international has been elevated into a coaching position as the Chinese big spenders overhaul their managerial staff following their poor start to 2012

Chinese big spenders Shanghai Shenhua have announced on Thursday that Nicolas Anelka will become part of the club's newlook coaching staff.

Earlier this week there was speculation on head coach Jean Tigana's future at the club, and at Thursday's press conference Shenhua confirmed three French assistant coaches, brought to Shanghai by the former Fulham boss, had been moved on as their methods were reportedly not working with the players.

Tigana has remained head coach, while Shenhua confirmed Anelka along with former Tottenham keeper Ian Walker as well as Jean-Florent Ikwange Ibenge, Alioune Kissima and former Birmingham City fitness coach Dan Harris have joined the club in coaching capacities.

The club's owner Zhu Jun told Shanghai based newspaper Xinmin Evening News: "The main reason for changing the assistant coaches is to strengthen the team's daily training."

An unnamed official for the club also added: "We fired the assistant coaches. Tigana is still the coach of the team. Anelka is now on the coaching team."

Shenhua are currently 11th in China's Super League, having claimed just five points from five games this term.

Follow Ben Somerford on

Follow Goal.com Asia on and for the latest in Asian footballing news, features, and analysis

Inside Goal.Com

Real Madrid are better off without Jose Mourinho
The Portuguese's position had become untenable in recent weeks, especially after Friday's debacle in the Copa del Rey. Now he is leaving, but the club can grow stronger without him
In Off the Post Podcast: Merrick makes return
The team from Goal Australia and Sportal take you through all the big news in football, including Ernie Merrick's A-League return and the forthcoming Champions League final
Bayern's jinx - CL final referee Nicola Rizzoli
Goal takes a look at the career of the Italian arbiter to date following Uefa's decision to appoint the 41-year-old for Saturday's showpiece at Wembley
Merrick's chance to prove his point at Phoenix
Bren O'Brien ponders Ernie Merrick's A-League return with the Wellington Phoenix and if we will see a change in the man to the one that led Melbourne Victory to two championships
Who is the greatest Champions League striker ever?
Enter our competition now and you will be in with a chance of winning one of four replica football shirts. Simply pick your favourite and subscribe to our YouTube channel