Jens Berthel Askou leaves F.C. Copenhagen

Jens Berthel Askou has left his role as F.C. Copenhagen assistant coach to take up a new job as Motherwell FC manager ahead of the new season.

Jens joined F.C. Copenhagen this winter and made a positive impact within the coaching team, but there has been an understanding that the opportunity for a new step in his career could present itself this summer.

"Jens has been a skilled coach to bring into our group. He has supplemented the coaching team perfectly, and he has delivered at a high level," says sports director Sune Smith-Nielsen.

"Both in the back office and out on the training pitch, he has taken responsibility and shown great footballing insight. He has helped us improve.

“However, we have been aware from the start that this scenario could arise because we are dealing with a talented coach who has experience being a head coach role before. Therefore, we have been aware throughout how the coaching team should be supplemented in the future, and this is expected to fall into place in the near future."

Jens himself says about his time at F.C. Copenhagen: “It has been a huge pleasure to have been a part of the club and at the same time contribute to a fantastic environment at F.C. Copenhagen for the last six months.

“From a human and sporting perspective, it has been a fantastic match between F.C. Copenhagen and myself. I have enjoyed working with the coaching staff and the players every single day for the last six months, which culminated in us winning the double.

"That was both the goal for my time here and at the same time the perfect ending to a superb spell at F.C. Copenhagen. I have worked together with a unique group of incredibly talented and inspiring people.

“I am convinced that this team will reach an even higher level in the coming season. I will be happy to follow this from the outside, as I have been given an exciting opportunity to resume my managerial career. I would like to thank everyone for an excellent experience in Copenhagen."

FCK head coach Jacob Neestrup also sends Jens off with great praise.

“The playing squad, the coaching staff and myself have been extremely happy with our collaboration with Jens," says Neestrup. "He has delivered to the extent of his responsibilities, and we can only thank Jens for his great and dedicated efforts for F.C. Copenhagen over the past six months.

"He has had a big share in our championship and cup success.

“We are happy that it's been a god match, but we have also shown from day one that this opportunity for Jens could potentially arise. We can look back on a good collaboration and we all wish Jens the best with his upcoming challenge in Scotland."