Resino replaces Herrera at Celta Vigo

Resino replaces Herrera at Celta Vigo

Published Feb. 19, 2013 12:00 a.m. ET

Celta Vigo have sacked coach Paco Herrera and named Abel Resino as his replacement as they continue to battle against relegation.

Saturday's 3-1 defeat to Getafe left Celta four points from safety in 18th place in the league, forcing the departure of the man who guided them to the Primera Division last season.

"El Real Club Celta confirmed the appointment of Abel Resino as coach of the first team," the club said in a statement.

"The technician replaces Paco Herrera on the bench, to whom the club wants to convey its appreciation for his hard work in recent seasons and the unforgettable promotion achieved last season."

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The 53-year-old Resino has emerged as something of a preservation specialist in recent seasons, saving both Levante and Granada from relegation.

In 2007, he saved Levante after stepping up from Murcia midway through the campaign, and in 2012 he kept Granada away from the trapdoor.

The highlight of his career was guiding Atletico Madrid - the club where the former goalkeeper spent the bulk of his playing days - to a Champions League berth in 2009.

He had left Castellon to join Atletico, and was replaced at the Valencia club by Herrera.

A good start next weekend against Granada may be imperative for Resino, with games against Real Madrid, Sevilla and Barcelona all imminent on the fixture list.

"The club hopes for the unity of the whole Celta family and that the experience and good work of Abel Resino on the bench can help us reach our targets this season," the statement added.

"We also reiterate our sincere thanks to Paco Herrera for his great work in recent seasons, which has given the team a clear personality.

"After narrowly missing promotion in his first season, Herrera achieved this last season using many homegrown players and attractive football.

"Real Club Celta wishes him great success in his next engagement."

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