Vitesse Arnhem coach Mike Snoei has been suspended by the Dutch first division relegation candidates, the club have confirmed.

The 39-year-old, who wass promoted from youth team coach last year, will not complete his first season as head coach.

Vitesse, in 15th place in the 18-team league and only three points ahead of bottom club Graafschap. Prior to Snoei’sappointment, the club never finished lower than sixth in 13 seasons since their return to the top flight.

Edward Sturing, head of the youth team, is expected to be namedcaretaker coach until the end of the season.