Former German Bundesliga coach Ernst Middendorp has been fired by Maritzburg United, the South African Premier Soccer League club said on Saturday.
A statement on the club's website said the German had challenged the club to fire him on national television.
“The club hereby confirm the termination of Middendorps contract with immediate effect.
“It is the view of the club that the appearances of the coach on national television has caused irreparable damage within the team and its players.”
Maritzburg lost a cup game to Moroka Swallows 3-0 on Friday night and the club said that this was evidence of the damage Middendorp's outbursts had was caused.
“The club was forced to exceed to Middendorps request to fire him against the risks of poor performances in the remainder of the league campaign.
“The club is however disappointed that Ernst Middendorp could not make the honourable decision and resign and in provoking the club to terminate his contract; Ernst Middendorp will look to seek financial compensation.”
Middendorp who took over the coaching reins at Maritzburg in November 2009, formerly coached Arminia Bielefeld in the German Bundesliga. - Sapa-dpa