Markevich leaves Ukraine helm

Myron Markevich has resigned as Ukraine coach in order to focus on his position at the helm of FC Metalist Kharkiv.

The 59-year-old, who since February was combining his role as Metalist Kharkiv head coach with leading Ukraine's national team, said: "I was, and remain, Metalist head coach and I cannot betray my home club. I have a clear conscience before the Ukraine fans. We have not suffered a single defeat during my time in charge of the national team."

Markevich took the reins of the UEFA EURO 2012 co-hosts seven months ago. He was in the dugout for four friendly games as Ukraine defeated Lithuania (4-0), Romania (3-2) and Norway (1-0) before a 1-1 draw with FIFA World Cup runners-up Netherlands two weeks ago. "Hopefully Ukraine will find a worthy successor who is able to take the baton and meet the challenge ahead of UEFA EURO 2012," added the trainer, who has occupied the Metalist hot seat since 2005.

The Football Federation of Ukraine (FFU) has appointed Yuriy Kalitvintsev as caretaker coach and he will prepare the team for the friendlies against Poland and Chile on 4 and 7 September. Kalitvintsev, a 42-year-old former Ukrainian international midfielder, started his coaching career at FC Zakarpattya Uzhhorod in 2001. His most notable achievement so far was guiding Ukraine to the 2009 UEFA European Under-19 Championship title.