Syed Talib
Updated on: October 12, 2024 6:28 am GMT
Tom Sermanni is back in charge of the Matildas for a third time, stepping in as interim coach as Football Australia continues its search for a long-term replacement for Tony Gustavsson. With a history that includes decades of coaching experience in women’s football, Sermanni is expected to provide stability and guidance during the upcoming international matches.
Who is Tom Sermanni?
Tom Sermanni, 70, is a familiar face in Australian women’s football. After moving to Australia in the 1980s, he made a substantial impact both as a player and a coach.
- Coaching History:
– Originally served as Matildas coach from 1994 to 1997.
– Returned to lead the team from 2005 to 2012, steering them to victory in the 2010 Asian Cup.
– Coached the United States National Team from 2013 to 2014, where his team embarked on an undefeated streak.
– Most recently, he was the head coach for the New Zealand national team from 2018 to 2021 and served as a technical advisor for Canada during preparations for the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Sermanni’s connection to many current players is a vital aspect of his return, aiming to build rapport and seamlessly transition the team during this interim period.
The Appointment Background
Football Australia announced his interim appointment after the departure of Gustavsson. The organization has stressed the need for a thorough search to find the right head coach.
- Key Points:
– Sermanni will guide the team through friendly matches in Europe next month.
– Potentially, he will lead the team until the end of the year if a permanent coach isn’t found early.
– Football Australia CEO James Johnson emphasized the importance of this period to look for a suitable long-term candidate.
“Our priority is to ensure continuity on the field while we conduct a comprehensive search for our next permanent head coach,” Johnson stated.
Support from Players
Sermanni’s previous coaching stints have built a strong rapport with many of the senior players. Names like Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord have previously played under his leadership, which bodes well for team dynamics.
- Player Backing:
– Informed sources indicate that senior Matildas players have expressed their support for Sermanni.
– Injured captain Sam Kerr, along with other seniors, are eager for his return, hoping he can help re-integrate her into the squad.
Sermanni commented on his appointment, saying, “It’s an honor to return to the Matildas, even in this interim capacity. I’m looking forward to working with this talented group of players.”
Looking Ahead
The upcoming international window will be critical for the Matildas as they prepare for matches, including a significant game against Germany, the Olympic bronze medalists.
- Challenges Ahead:
– The Matildas need to refine their tactics and build team cohesion.
– Preparing for strong opponents will demand quick adjustments and effective strategies from Sermanni.
The immediate focus will be on physical training and strategic reviews to fortify the team’s lineup.
Injury Updates
A key player who will need careful management is Sam Kerr, currently recovering from a knee injury. Discussions around her fitness are ongoing.
- Kerr’s Status:
– Johnson confirmed the team is in regular contact with Kerr about her recovery.
– There’s no set timeline for her return, as she needs to regain fitness and play at the club level first.
It’s crucial for the Matildas that Kerr returns to top form, as her experience and skills significantly enhance the team’s chances on the field.
Conclusion
As Tom Sermanni takes the reins of the Matildas once again, both the team and football fans are hopeful for a successful interim period. His extensive experience and established connections within the squad are vital as the search for a permanent coach continues. With key international matches on the horizon, the support from players and Football Australia will be pivotal in determining the Matildas’ future direction on the field.
As the team gets ready for the challenges ahead, everyone is looking to Sermanni to play well and show the great history and bright future of Australian women’s football.
