THE Singapore Badminton Association (SBA) on Wednesday announced changes to its coaching set-up, with chief singles coach Luan Ching and chief doubles coach Yoo Yong Sung both replaced.

Coach Liu Qingdong, who was formally in charge of the National Intermediate Squad (NIS), will take over as chief coach from Feb 1. He will be assisted by Liu Fan (singles), former Singapore national player Jiang Yanmei (doubles) and Ding Chao (NIS).

The coaching shake-ups come after a string of dismal performance by the national badminton team. The shuttlers returned with just one bronze medal at the SEA Games last month.

Said Lee Yi Shyan, president of the SBA: "This change in our coaching structure is timely as it allows us consolidate on past achievements and build new strengths."