All business for Rudan versus Sydney

WELLINGTON: Thousands of supporters chanted Mark Rudan’s name after his final ALeague appearance for Sydney FC.

Those memories may yet bubble to the surface nearly 11 years ago to the day at Jubilee Oval today.

But Wellington Phoenix coach Rudan reckons he can keep them in check when he tackles his old club.

The 43yearold’s name will be forever linked with Sydney FC, having been captain when it clinched the inaugural

ALeague crown in 200506.

A forceful centre back and vocal leader, Rudan was the rock around which a championship group was built, earning the nickname of the Big Blue Man.

There was quality everywhere, including the class of attacking midfielder Steve Corica, now coach of the Sky Blues.

The pair were among Sydney FC’s initial Hall of Fame intake but Rudan says history is not affecting him as he builds methodically towards conjuring what would be a sizeable upset.

‘‘As a coach, you prepare exactly the same, although I don’t know how I’ll feel when I walk out. I had three really good years there,’’ he said.

‘‘I built some really good relationships with the fans and obviously the coaching staff. But it’s business as usual.

‘‘For me, it’s about my team and making sure that we’re best prepared to get a result.’’

Rudan said he was in deep with the ninthplaced Phoenix and sentimentality would not affect him.

His passion for the traditional struggler shone through with his scathing attack on officialdom following last week’s 11 home draw with leader Perth Glory.

The comments drew attention away from what was the best performance this season from the New Zealand side, leaving Rudan confident it can rattle the thirdplaced home team.

‘‘No fear. I told them about playing in the same sort of manner and I want players with courage who want to play and who want the ball. We’ll take it to Sydney FC,’’ Rudan said.

‘‘I don’t think anyone’s backing us to get a result there but that’s good for us.’’

Rudan said this year’s Sydney FC package looked as strong as the one that has dominated the past two ALeague seasons under the departed Graham Arnold.

Video analysis has not been a taxing process, for Rudan, who has admired the quality of his former team from afar. — AAP