Stam steps down as Feyenoord coach

Jaap Stam has stepped down as coach of Feyenoord following their 4-0 thrashing at the hands of fierce rivals Ajax, the former Dutch international announced on Monday.

In a statement, Stam said it had “certainly not been an easy decision” to resign, with the 15-time Dutch champions languishing in 12th place in the league after their humbling in Amsterdam.

“I have thought about it well and for a long time. My final conclusion is that it is better for the club, the players and myself if I step aside,” said the 47-year-old.

The 1970 European champions said on their website Stam had resigned “with immediate effect”, adding they did not want him to leave.

“The coach certainly had our support and the players group wanted to continue with him,” said technical director Sjaak Troost.