Nikolay Nerush has stepped down as Russia coach to concentrate on his role at VVA-Podmoskovye.
Nerush concentrate on VVA-Podmoskovye
Nikolay Nerush has stepped down as Russia's head coach to concentrate on his role at VVA-Podmoskovye.
Nerush had combined the two roles since his appointment by the Bears in 2008 - and he enjoyed considerable success with the national side.
He guided Russia to their first-ever World Cup and although they lost all four of their games, they won over a number of fans with their style of play.
Nerush, though, claims it was always his plan to step down after the World Cup.
"I took this decision a long time ago," Nerush said. "Even if we won the Webb Ellis Cup I would not have changed my mind.
"When I took up the team our main target was to qualify for the World Cup. We have accomplished this goal, so I deem my job to be done.
"Now it's time to step aside as new people should come to the team to bring new emotions and energy. Our team should move forward.
"There was a huge expectation on us against the United States, we were expected to win, and the whole competition was really tough for us.
"But it is a great tournament and we have touched it with our own hands. I am grateful to my players who have shown the strong will to win and great character."
