Soccer: Veteran brings valued experience

In signing on the dotted line for the New Zealand Knights, Darren Bazeley may be rekindling a trend which led to soccer's glory days.

The 1982 World Cup campaign was successful because John Adshead had a split of New Zealand and foreign-born players. In more recent times, few players have made the trek from the other side of the globe to try their luck.

At 32, Bazeley hardly fits the mould of a young Steve Sumner, Bobby Almond or Steve Wooddin - all key performers in the World Cup era - but he does bring much-needed experience to the club ahead of the August start to the new-look Australian Hyundai A-League.

The veteran of almost 500 league games in England - with stints at Watford, Wolves and Walsall - Bazeley is here briefly to check things out before returning home and then coming back in about six weeks with wife Sandy and daughters Taylor (8) and Abby (5).

A naturally right-sided player - most comfortable as an attacking fullback - Bazeley is one of four early signings by Adshead. He comes on the recommendation of Danny Hay who played alongside Bazeley in the Walsall defence.

"When I heard about the chance to play here I was excited. My wife and I were looking for a lifestyle change and this seemed an ideal opportunity," says Bazeley. "I see it as a great opportunity to be in something at the start."

Although he never played in the English premier league, he was a regular in Watford's first and second division days, playing around 250 games for them before three seasons at first-division Wolves. In July 2002 he went on a free transfer to Walsall where he played a further 100 games.

"I played much of my early football under Graham Taylor [a former England and Watford manager] who I still regard as the most knowledgeable man I ever worked with. From what I have heard, John Adshead has a similar philosophy. For that reason I'm looking forward to working with him."

Although he has played much of his football at right back, Bazeley will play in any position.

"I'll play anywhere the gaffer wants me to. I feel fit and am ready to go. I have worked hard since I first played. At 32, I feel I still have three or four good years left in me."

Given his long involvement, it is not surprising he knows little other than football. He now intends to turn his hand to coaching at some stage and has already expressed a desire to do his badges.

Hay, and other players in this part of the world, have already given their tick of approval. It is now up to him to produce it on the field.

Darren Bazeley

Born: October 5, 1972, Northampton, England.

Debut: 1989-90 season as 17-year-old.

Clubs: Watford (1989-1999), Wolverhampton Wanderers (1999-2002), Walsall (2002-2004).

Position: Right back.

Most goals in one season: 6 (1991-92).