Three weeks after Carl Robinson was fired as coach of the Vancouver Whitecaps, the former Welsh international has issued his first public comments.
In a statement released through The Province, Robinson mainly issued thanks to many of those involved in his five-year coaching tenure in Vancouver. In one paragraph, however, he also hinted at the idea that he had been asked to help the club punch above its weight.
"Special mention to all my players past and present that fought for me every week and never gave in," Robinson wrote. "The fight you showed gave me immense pride. We never had the superstars of the other teams in the league but we laid down for no one."
Robinson also indicated he is looking to continue his career as a manager, though he didn't suggest where. Before coaching the Whitecaps, he spent seasons as an MLS player between the New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC.
He also assured the public there was no bitterness over his exit, and that the most northwesterly city in MLS would always hold a special place for him.
"The day I walked into the club I had a big smile on my face," Robinson wrote. "The day I walked out I had the same smile, myself and my family will never forget the amazing city of Vancouver and the warmth to which we were greeted and treated by the people of this great city, there will always be a special place in our hearts for British Columbia."
