The Los Angeles Galaxy announced Tuesday afternoon that head coach Steve Sampson has been relieved of his duties, effective immediately. No replacement has yet been named. The reigning MLS Cup and U.S. Open Cup champions are in the midst of a six-game losing streak, the worst in team history.
"Steve Sampson has worked tirelessly for this organization, but our 2006 campaign has yet to live up to the high standards that Galaxy fans have come to know and expect from their team," said Galaxy president and general manager Alexi Lalas. "The Galaxy is the jewel of MLS, but with that distinction comes a responsibility to continuously set the bar, on and off the field. I want to thank Coach Sampson for all he has done for the Galaxy including winning an MLS Cup and U.S. Open Cup championship, and I wish him only the best as he continues his coaching career."
Sampson became the fourth head coach in Galaxy history on Aug. 18, 2004, when he controversially replaced current Columbus Crew head coach Sigi Schmid, despite the team then standing atop the Western Conference. Sampson led the side into the conference championship that season, where they fell to the Kansas City Wizards.
The Galaxy then struggled in 2005, putting together a 13-13-6 record to finish in the fourth and final playoff spot in the West. However, a splendid run in the MLS Cup Playoffs was capped with a 1-0 overtime victory over the New England Revolution at Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, Texas on Nov. 13.
"It has been an honor to be the head coach of the Los Angeles Galaxy for the last two years. It was truly a privilege to bring two championships to the fans of Los Angeles," said Sampson. "I would like to thank AEG and the entire Galaxy organization, from the front office, to the coaches, to the players for all of their support and hard work. I truly enjoyed my time here and wish everyone all the best in the future."
Los Angeles currently sits in last place in both the Western Conference and the overall league standings with the lowest point total (seven) of any team. The club has yet to win a game at The Home Depot Center in 2006. The team's last victory came on April 29 in a 3-2 win against Real Salt Lake. The Galaxy will be in action on Thursday night when they face Honda Super Clasico rival Chivas USA at 10 p.m. ET.
Jonathan Nierman is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
