NZF taking no chances with Phoenix All Whites

FOOTBALL

NEW ZEALAND FOOTBALL is playing hardball with the Wellington Phoenix, refusing to allow the club’s All Whites to play against Perth next Saturday.

The Phoenix had believed that its All Whites contingent would be available for the round five match against the Glory, which kicks off at 5.30pm at Christchurch’s AMI Stadium.

The club argued the All Whites could play the game and still be in Auckland in time for their late night Saturday flight to Los Angeles to prepare for the November 14 World Cup qualifier against Mexico.

NZF high performance manager Fred de Jong said all of the selected All Whites were expected to assemble in Los Angeles on November 9 (US time) and the Phoenix would not have access to expected selections Glen Moss, Andrew Durante, Ben Sigmund, Leo Bertos and Jeremy Brockie.

‘‘What we’ve said is we’re just being consistent across the board,’’ de Jong said.

‘‘It’s too important, we’re doing everything possible to prepare the team for the two biggest games every four years. We want to minimise the chance of injury or any possible delay in flights and unfortunately that’s impacted players playing for clubs and the clubs themselves.’’

De Jong said Fifa rules meant the All Whites had rights to all selected players between November 9 and 22.

‘‘The clubs know the rules and they ask if their players can play and in this instance we’ve just said the players

NZF high performance manager Fred de Jong won’t be allowed to play, they’ll have to travel and in a lot of instances they’re disappointed and accepting.

‘‘The Phoenix are the hardest hit which is unfortunate . . . But we’re trying to qualify for a World Cup.’’

Phoenix general manager David Dome did not return calls but it is understood the club is disappointed that NZF hasn’t shown any flexibility.

The Phoenix are in a tough position as the A-League does not break for in- ternational windows. They were without their All Whites for the round one loss to Brisbane and the international contingent returned late in the buildup to the round two draw against Western Sydney.

Of more pressing concern to Phoenix coach Ernie Merrick is Monday’s trip to Melbourne Victory.

Louis Fenton will fly with the squad tomorrow and while Merrick hasn’t named a starting XI, he appears a good chance to replace Bertos at right back.

‘‘He’s looking good at training, he’s over his shoulder dislocation and he’s trained hard for the last two-and-a-half weeks, in live, physical contact type sessions,’’ Merrick said.

Merrick is also likely to drop one of his strikers in a bid to get a better foothold in midfield against the Victory.