STEVE Barker has resigned his post at University of Pretoria and is now the new coach of AmaZulu.

Barker, who had been the longest-serving coach in the top two tiers of South African football after Jomo Sono at Cosmos, told AmaTuks yesterday that he would be headed for Durban.

The news that Barker was ending his six-year stay at the club was confirmed by AmaTuks operations officer Graham Oosthuis. AmaZulu also confirmed last night in a statement that Barker had joined them.

"He has resigned. He is going to AmaZulu," Oosthuis said.

"It is sad for us because it is the end of an era, but at the same time we wish him all the best for the future.

"He has been a pillar of strength for Tuks football and put a lot of excellent structures in place to strengthen the club. He will be missed."

Barker's assistant Sammy Troughton will take temporary charge of the side. AmaTuks' next game is on Wednesday at home to Orlando Pirates. Barker's resignation came just 12 hours after his AmaTuks side came from two goals down to defeat fragile Moroka Swallows 3-2.

At AmaZulu there is more potential for success even if the club's immediate aim is to move away from the relegation zone. This is after a dismal 4-2 loss at Platinum Stars on Saturday night left the side without a win in 11 league games this season and six points adrift at the foot of the table. Usuthu have chosen this moment to replace caretaker boss Wilfred Mugeyi with their next fixture scheduled for December 2 - against AmaTuks.

"Barker has been appointed to the head coach role and we believe he will add much needed experience and stability," AmaZulu said in a statement last night.