Sermanni to coach Ferns
WELLINGTON: Tom Sermanni will be the new head coach of the Football Ferns.
New Zealand Football announced Sermanni as the man to usher the Ferns into a new era, replacing disgraced former coach Andres Heraf.
The decorated Scotsman, who has spent the past three years coaching the Orlando Pirates in the United States, has also previously coached the United States women’s team and the Australian Matildas.
Sermanni said he was looking forward to working with the Ferns.
‘‘I’m delighted to be given the challenge of qualifying the Football Ferns for the World Cup in France next year,’’ he said from Orlando.
‘‘During my time in coaching I’ve always had a close relationship with the team and I am very pleased to have the opportunity to lead the pro gramme during this exciting time."
The 64yearold’s first order of business will be naming the side for the OFC Nations Cup in New Caledonia next month.
It has been a difficult year for the Football Ferns after a tumultuous period that led to a wideranging review of NZFl, ultimately leading to the resignation of former coach Heraf.
Earlier this month, the damning findings of the independent review were released, upholding complaints made by members of the Football Ferns about the organisation’s conduct and culture, as well as issues with the leadership of Heraf and former NZF boss Andy Martin. — RNZ