Michael Valkanis has been named interim first team coach to Melbourne City, as the club begins a search process for a new head coach following John van ‘t Schip’s resignation.

The Dutch will return to his native Holland, in order to contribute to the palliative care of his father.

“I have been faced with a choice between my family in Holland and my work here in Australia and there was only one right decision,” van ‘t Schip said in a statement.

“I did not want my personal circumstances to impact the club in any way.

“I would like to thank everyone at Melbourne City and the City Football Group for their support. The club’s development since its creation will always be a source of great personal pride to me.”

Michael Valkanis is a former Australian football (soccer) player and served as assistant coach of Melbourne City.