By TERRY MADDAFORD
After two seasons under the Rufers, the Football Kingz are moving on, with new coach Mike Petersen turning his back on highly successful South Melbourne after just one season to take the reins at the Auckland-based club.
No one would dare suggest that it will be easy for Petersen, who has already appointed Shane Rufer as his assistant and still expects some input from Wynton Rufer, but the likeable Australia is prepared to give it his best shot.
While still some weeks away from naming his squad, Petersen hinted strongly yesterday that there would be no room for last season's imports - Aaron Silva, Dennis Ibrahim, Julio Cuello or Andy Bluhm.
Petersen gives his thoughts on what lies ahead and what has gone before:
The Rufers were reluctant to talk of making the NSL playoffs. Where have you set your sights?
I haven't thought about that at this stage. It's a bit early.
The NSL started with 16 teams last season, fell away to 14 and is now planned for 12 this season. What is the right number and do you have concerns at the discontent within Soccer Australia?
I'm not qualified to comment on boardroom matters. I would be disappointed if it went to 12 teams, but that would probably strengthen the league. It would not be healthy to lose teams such as Canberra and Brisbane.
Is the standard in the NSL high enough to be regarded as a genuine stepping-stone between domestic and international football?
In Australia it has been with players like Brett Emerton, who was with Sydney Olympic this time last year, and is now commanding a first-team place at Feyenoord. Others have gone from the Australian Institute of Sport to much bigger things.
Levent Osman still has a year of his Kingz' contract to run. How many other Australians will join him this season?
It is too early to say. The quota could swing 60-40 either way with New Zealand and Australian players.
A number of players, including player of the year Mark Burton, are heading overseas. Where will their replacements come from?
I'm very busy with Shane and Wynton in looking for a healthy mix of New Zealand and Australian talent. It is encouraging that players are going overseas.
The Kingz are allowed three imports from non-Oceania countries this season. How many are likely to be in your squad?
I'm very cautious about imports. We haven't targeted any so far. Aaron Silva is not in that equation.
The Kingz have been regarded as too defensive. What formation are you likely to go with this round?
My philosophy is very much on attacking football. I'm adventurous and will probably go with a 4-4-2 lineup.
Does Wynton Rufer figure in your plans as a player? And what about Jason Batty?
Rufer definitely, but he hasn't signed yet. Batty, no.
The Kingz do not have a reserve team. Is this a real problem?
Definitely. This is something we have to address because the fringe players are not getting football.
They could play in Australia, but financially, I don't think it would work.
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