Sammy Yu quits Birmingham City post

Birmingham City football consultant Sammy Yu has stepped down from the position after only nine months in the post, it was reported on Saturday.

The former Hong Kong coach, who was instrumental in helping tycoon Carson Yeung take over the Blues, has severed his links with the club with immediate effect, according to the Birmingham Mail newspaper.

Yu’s departure follows criticism of his role in overseeing Birmingham’s pre-season tour of China and Hong Kong, which reportedly came under fire from players for its gruelling itinerary and facilities.

“I think the time is right for me to step down,” Yu told the Mail.

“After four years being part of the whole deal, from the beginning, I have done my bit.

“It’s time to release myself and I wish Birmingham City the best for the future. To be part of the club’s history in a very important era is a highlight of my life.”

Yu, a former coach of Hong Kong, was initially appointed vice-chairman of football at Birmingham with a role working alongside manager Alex McLeish, before he was made football consultant.

Yu denied however that a rift with McLeish was behind his departure.

“I had no problem with Alex. It was a bit naive for anyone to think that when I first came in it was to take his job,” Yu said.