Fire release 2 staff members

The Chicago Fire released first assistant coach Mike Matkovich and fitness specialist Alvaro Briones, team officials announced Thursday.

Matkovich served as first assistant coach for the Fire for two seasons and Briones joined the club in January.

“This was a difficult decision for the club to make,” said Fire Technical Director Frank Klopas. “Everyone at the Fire has tremendous respect for Mike and Alvaro, however, we have decided to go in another direction. We appreciate the contributions Mike and Alvaro made to the club and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.”