体坛英语新闻：Vasco da Gama fires coach, threatens players

RIO DE JANEIRO, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- Head coach Paulo Cesar Gusmao was fired on Friday after a meeting with Vasco da Gama's president Roberto Dinamite, while the team's directory also cited midfielders captain Carlos Alberto and Felipe as the next to leave.

After a dismal beginning to the 2011 season, Vasco da Gama remains winless in the 2011 Rio de Janeiro state championship. In an effort to turn the tides, Gusmao was officially released of his duties in hopes of quickly reversing the team's current trend.

Star midfielder Carlos Alberto and Felipe recently argued with Dinamite regarding the club's performance and direction of the team in 2011. As a result of the discussion, Alberto and Felipe were warned that their days with the team are counted.

Apart from Gusmao's release, the team's physical trainer Jorge Sotter and the team's goalkeeper coach Acacio were let go.

As they stand, the team has no chance of competing for the title of the first half of the Rio de Janeiro state championship with a 0-3 record.

Vasco da Gama remains in the hunt for a new coach. New candidates include Abel Braga, Silas and Ricardo Gomes. While at Vasco da Gama, Gusmao produced a record of 12 wins, 15 draws and 8 ties.