Pearce not in the running, Phoenix says

WELLINGTON: Wellington Phoenix has hosed down reports it is considering former England international Stuart Pearce as its new head coach.

The club released a short statement saying it was ‘‘flattered by the calibre’’ of some of the coaches linked to the vacant ALeague position but would not comment on media speculation.

Chairman David Dome told Newstalk ZB the Phoenix had received a CV from the representatives of Pearce, whose playing career comprised 78 internationals for England and nearly 750 matches at various levels in the English game.

However, the club’s football committee had decided against pursuing it, along with ‘‘dozens’’ of other applications.

He quashed reports in Australia that said Pearce had been made an offer.

‘‘The chairman, football committee and general manager of Phoenix remain satisfied with the progress being made thus far,’’ a Phoenix statement yesterday said.

‘‘With several very strong candidates both internal and external, local and overseas, having been interviewed, we are confident of a full announcement being made within timelines previously outlined.’’

Cocoaches Des Buckingham and Chris Greenacre, who oversaw most of the 201617 campaign, were both interviewed last week.

An announcement is expected before the end of May. — NZN