Durban City FC are set to appoint Eric Tinkler as their new head coach. The 56-year-old South African tactician is expected to take over immediately after securing his release from Ghanaian side Asante Kotoko.

His arrival follows the weekend dismissal of Khalil Ben Youssef, who was let go after just three months in charge. Ben Youssef oversaw seven Betway Premiership matches, recording a single win alongside four draws and two defeats, leaving the club 10th in the table with seven points.

Kotoko departure confirmed

Tinkler's exit from Asante Kotoko was confirmed on Monday. The club stated he had requested a release for personal reasons after discussions aimed at keeping him.

"The Board of Directors of Asante Kotoko Sporting Club has agreed to the request of its Head Coach, Mr." the club said in a statement. It added that it was "grateful to Coach Tinkler for his professionalism and commitment" during his three-month tenure.

His brief spell in Ghana yielded one win, two draws and one defeat from four league games, with the club ninth on five points.

A return to familiar ground

This move represents a swift return to South African football for Tinkler and a reunion with familiar management. He previously worked with Durban City chairman Farook Kadodia during his time at Maritzburg United. Tinkler had been linked with the Durban City job earlier this year before the club ultimately appointed Ben Youssef ahead of the season.

The club's decision to change leadership comes amid a mixed start to their campaign. While they secured passage to the second round of the CAF Confederation Cup under Ben Youssef, their domestic form has been inconsistent. Their recent results show two wins, two draws and one loss from the last five outings, a sequence you can review on our fixtures page.

Tinkler is expected to begin work with the squad this week. His immediate task will be to prepare for a challenging home match against third-placed Amazulu on 16 October, a key test in their bid to climb the standings. The experienced coach now has the opportunity to stabilise the team and build on their continental qualification.

Background and full detail: soccerladuma.co.za