you mean....Crook may be next to depart Sydney

THE changing of the guard at Sydney FC seems set to continue, with assistant coach Ian Crook linked to a return to England's Championship after today's match against Adelaide United at Hindmarsh Stadium.

The former England 'B' international has been in Australia for seven years since arriving to wind down his career with Northern Spirit in the old NSL. But Crook, who has been Sydney's assistant coach since the start of the A-League, is believed to be on the verge of returning to his homeland - possibly by the end of the week.

Crook, 43, is thought to have been approached by his former Norwich City teammate Mark Bowen to become his No.2 - either at Carrow Road, where Nigel Worthington's lengthy tenure is under enormous pressure, or at West Bromwich Albion, where the vacancy left by the recent departure of Bryan Robson has yet to be filled.

Bowen is currently assistant to Mark Hughes at Blackburn Rovers, and has a contract at Ewood Park until 2009. But he has made no secret of his desire to become a manager in his own right, and wants Crook to join him.

The Norwich situation could become clear as early as today - depending on the result of this morning's match against Burnley.

Crook declined to comment on the speculation last night, except to say: "I'm very happy at Sydney."

Head coach Terry Butcher is believed to have lined up his former Rangers teammate Stuart Munro as his new assistant should Crook leave the club.

Posted By: thirsty work, Oct 2, 09:04:17