Neil Emblen, who is in charge of the New Zealand national team on an interim basis, has revealed that he wants to become the permanent manager of the national team. New Zealand football Association recently revealed that it had started looking at various options for the permanent managerial position. The FA also revealed that it had received an overwhelming response through applications for this position. Emblen is also thought to be one of the managers considered for this position, but his record in the last few months has certainly not helped his case.
The team has not managed a single victory since September 2013. They have only managed two 0-0 draws as the only positive results during this period. Even those results came against Trinidad and Tobago and South Africa. This poor run of form may result in the FA considering other options, but Emblen has confirmed for the first time that he wants to remain in charge of the national team. The FA are unlikely to take any risks with the next appointment, as it could seriously hamper their chances of reaching the World Cup 2018. The qualification for the tournament begins in September.
Emblen says that his experience of working with the team for several years – including as an assistant manager – will hold him in good stead.
“I actually haven’t put a CV in to them [NZF] yet. I think it closes midnight Friday, so maybe we’ll see after about 10 o’clock that night, after the South Africa game. The organisation pretty much knows how I feel about the whole thing. I’m happy to retain the role I was in. If they go for a local candidate, then maybe there’s more of a chance. If it’s someone from overseas that’s wanting to do it, and within budget . . . I’m just dictated by what the organisation is thinking,” said Emblen.