Schmid picks six new caps in first All Whites squad for Canada friendly

By Cathy Walshe

All Whites coach Fritz Schmid has named a new-look squad for his first tour in charge of the national team.

Schmid has selected six newcomers in a 24-man squad for the international friendly with world No 89 Canada in Spain early on March 25 (NZT).

Nikko Boxall will join older brother Michael in the New Zealand defence alongside two other new faces in Adam Mitchell and young goalkeeper Nik Tzanev.

All Blacks legend Sir John Kirwan’s son Niko and Wellington Phoenix’s Sarpreet Singh have been named as attacking midfielders, with Andre De Jong adding firepower up front.

Tim Payne, Matt Ridenton and Cameron Howieson have been recalled to the national squad after long absences.

A number of established players were not selected due to club commitments — those included Chris Wood, Stefan Marinovic, Bill Tuiloma, Kosta Barbarouses, Deklan Wynne, Kip Colvey and Tommy Smith.

Schmid said he understood they had other priorities to consider.

“We know what all those players can offer the national team. They are not selected for this window, but they all know they are on my watch-list and they will be offered an opportunity to prove their value in due time.”

In the absence of Wood and Winston Reid (injury), Schmid said the captain for this tour was still to be determined. He said the squad offered a balance of experienced players and newcomers, as well as some returning to the international environment.

“It is confirming our intention to take a good look at all of the potential All Whites, because that will be the task in the next months, not only here in the Spain camp, but throughout the next few windows.”

Schmid has selected three uncapped keepers in Max Crocombe, Michael Woud and Tzanev, who are all based in England, saying the tour presented an opportunity to look at their potential.

“We know Canada will have a very strong squad and will present a tough challenge for us in Spain.

“That is the best thing to look forward to; to offer these players a real opportunity to show where we can go from here and start our World Cup cycle.” — NZN Goalkeepers: Defenders: Midfielders: Forwards: Standby: