Santos unveils Marques as coach

Cape Town – National First Division side, Santos FC, confirmed that Zeca Marques has been appointed as the club’s new head coach.

According to the club's official website, the statement reveals that “a deal was struck” on Wednesday night.

“Santos Football Club are delighted to announce the appointment of Zeca Marques as the club's new Head Coach,” said the statement

“The 53-year-old former Moroka Swallows assistant boss, who last coached National First Division side Black Leopards to the 2014/15 play-offs, joins the People's Team officially on Monday.

“A deal was struck between Mr Marques and Santos Chairman Mr Allie early on Thursday morning after protracted talks on Wednesday night.

“Born Jose Marques, the Portuguese moved to South Africa as a child where he played for Troyeville FC in the defunct NSL. He has also coached Johannesburg-based side Lusitano FC as well as at Bidvest Wits.

“After assisting Gordon Igesund at Swallows for a number of years, Marques took over from the “current SuperSport boss, in July 2012.

Addressing the Santos players at the club's Lansdowne base on Thursday morning, Marques said that he was delighted to be joining a club with such stature and history, and outlined his desire to see the club return to the Premier Soccer League.”