Bengt-Ake Gustafsson: I am in talks with Avangard and SKA

Former Sweden head coach Bengt-Ake Gustafsson has commented on the information about his talks with KHL clubs Avangard Omsk and SKA St. Petersburg.

«I have to admit this is all true. I was preparing myself to the move to St. Petersburg a year ago, but then the club’s management changed its decision within days. However, I don’t nurse any grievance and would gladly take on a job at SKA today. What appeals to me is the club’s vast financial potential, which allows to bring in players of the highest level. Moreover, there are Swedish players there, Weinhandl and Martensson, who have told me very good things about how the club is organized. Though, we haven’t reached any agreement with SKA yet – it’s more like we have expressed our interest in each other.

The talks with Avangard are much livelier this spring. The option of going to Siberia is equally attractive for me as the chance to continue my career in St. Petersburg. About seven or eight days ago it seemed to me that we are on the verge of signing a contract with Omsk. I even made preparations to fly to Russia, meet my future employers, and negotiate all the details. However, then Avangard has slowed down the talks. OK, I will have to arm myself with patience. I have decided to wait for the offers from the KHL until the end of the World Championships,» said Gustafsson according to Sport-Express.