Smuda returns at Widzew

Franciszek Smuda is the new coach of Widzew Lódz after the departure of Dariusz Wdowczyk just hours before the start of the new Polish season.

Smuda back in charge
Widzew president Miroslaw Czesny wasted no time in appointing the returning Smuda to take charge of the side that finished second in the relegation group last season. Czesny explained: "I regard Dariusz Wdowczyk as a very hard working man, one of the people who kept our team in the top flight last season. But there are new conditions which appeared within last few days, and we decided Franciszek Smuda will be better for the club."

Wdowczyk speaks out
The "new conditions" are unclear, but Wdowczyk says he left due to the possible presence at the club of businessman Andrzej Grajewski, who has been asked for financial support after the collapse of sponsorship negotiations. "I can't imagine working with Mr Grajewski," Wdowczyk said. "I don't want to give him the satisfaction of dismissing me after one or two defeats. That's why I decided to quit." Wdowczyk, who won the title with KP Polonia Warszawa in 2000, joined Widzew last October.

Champions League man
Smuda's previous spell in charge of Wizdew between 1995 and 1999 saw the club gain two Polish championships and a UEFA Champions League place in the 1996/97 season. He subsequently coached Legia Warszawa and TS Wisla Kraków, and will be assisted by former player Kazimierz Kmiecik. Smuda started his job today, when Widzew welcomed Odra Wodzislaw in their first match of the season.