Terim to step down

Turkish national coach Fatih Terim has confirmed that he will quit his post following the spirited Euro 2008 semi-final exit at the hands of Germany yesterday.

He said: "I said goodbye to the players. I have already said that I would not be working in Turkey next season.

"I am someone who keeps his promises. I am probably going to return to a European club. But it is not for me to make the announcement."

He added: "The players really wanted that win.

"We would have hoped to reach the final but sometimes you do lose in the final minutes and you have to accept that.

"We must strive to keep reaching the semi-finals. Football is important in Turkey.

"There were 70 million Turkish hearts beating with the players' out there today.

"I believe a team like Turkey must keep getting to these tournaments and proving themselves.

"I hope we can build on this success.

"I am proud of my players and I think their desire, tactics and performance means they showed the world what a great team they are."

Terim continued: "I think we are leaving as the most colourful team of the tournament.

"We were almost there, but that is football.

"It was important to have a team which generates excitement amongst our fans."

Terim confirmed he will talk to Turkish football chiefs, who are hoping in vain that he might stay.