Fowler on the Roar path

Young hails tough new era as coach wields axe

ROAR player of the year Jamie Young says the hardnosed “British mentality” of new coach Robbie Fowler is what Brisbane needs to lift themselves out of the doldrums.

He doesn’t return to Queensland until June, but Fowler has already made an impact at the Roar, with 14 of this season’s squad, including retiring skipper Matt McKay, not returning next year.

Joining previously confirmed departures McKay, Henrique, Thomas Kristensen, Luke DeVere and Brett Holman are French marquee man Eric Bautheac, Spanish midfielder Alex Lopez, former Australian under-17 captain Joe Caletti, attackers Tobias Mikkelsen, Eli Babalj and Charles Lokoli-Ngoy, defenders Stefan Nigro and Ruon Tongyik, and reserve goalkeeper Brendan White. “There is a changing of the guard ... we are saying goodbye to some pretty amazing players,” firstchoice keeper Young said.

“It’s a bit sad, but there’s very little sentiment in football.”

How hard the club tried to retain French winger Bautheac remains unclear, while emerging centre-back Tongyik was perhaps slightly unlucky to be shown the door despite Brisbane’s shocking defensive performances this season.

The versatile Jacob Pepper is off contract, with the Roar yet to make a decision on a new deal.

Young, who plied his trade in England for 14 years, said Liverpool legend Fowler would bring a tougher culture to the Roar.

“British people, they’re very focused people,” he said. “Hopefully he brings what I like about the British mentality, where sometimes it’s not about how you play football, it’s about just winning the game.

“The places he’s played ... it’s a religion up there and I love that passion. I’ve missed that passion in Australia. I’m excited to work with him and go through brick walls for him.”