EPL Side Cardiff City Owner Vincent Tan Risks Fan Backlash With New Appointment

After sparking controversy by changing the color of the team's kit, EPL side Cardiff City Owner Vincent Tan "could face more anger from fans by making contentious changes to his backroom staff on," according to the AP. Tan urged Cardiff supporters to "remain united in our support of the team" in a statement announcing the departure of Iain Moody as the club's head of recruitment. Replacing Moody is 23-year-old Kazakhstani Alisher Apsalyamov, who according to British media is a friend of Tan's son, "has no previous football experience and was on work experience this summer painting the walls of Cardiff's stadium." Moody's close relationship with Manager Malky Mackay "provoked fears among fans groups that the coach's position could be under threat." However, Tan said he had "every faith in Malky," adding, "I have supported him in the past and will do so in the future for many years to come" (AP, 10/11).