AucklandPhoenix wrote:
And this guy may be involved in coaching the Nix next year?
Jesus.
Disappointing that he doesn't see any of our players as starters, guess he doesn't rate them much. Picking Elliot over Payne is diabolical.
Funnily enough in TUS this week he said contrary to media reports he was only invited down to have a look at training this week and played no role in coaching or even speaking to the group. Certainly on the basis of those comments I wouldn't think it was likely he will be part of the coaching group next year.
Anyway back on topic. Pijnaker shoulder injury. They can take a while to heal. I think if the All Whites were a meritocracy (we know they aren't due to Tommy Smith being a chance of making the squad) then this would put him even further behind Hughes in the CB pecking order. But won't be surprised to see him walk onto the plane even if he doesnt get back to his best/fittest, ahead of the likes of Isaac and Bill
Anyway back on topic. Pijnaker shoulder injury. They can take a while to heal. I think if the All Whites were a meritocracy (we know they aren't due to Tommy Smith being a chance of making the squad) then this would put him even further behind Hughes in the CB pecking order. But won't be surprised to see him walk onto the plane even if he doesnt get back to his best/fittest, ahead of the likes of Isaac and Bill
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Procrastinixing wrote:AucklandPhoenix wrote:Disappointing that he doesn't see any of our players as starters, guess he doesn't rate them much. Picking Elliot over Payne is diabolical.
And this guy may be involved in coaching the Nix next year?
Jesus.
Payne was phenomenal against Chile, but outside that he has been very poor this season and also injury plagued.
Elliott has generally done a decent job at RB for Aucks.
I don't think the call is as far fetched as some on here believe it is.
Elliott has generally done a decent job at RB for Aucks.
I don't think the call is as far fetched as some on here believe it is.
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imanixsupporter wrote:
Funnily enough in TUS this week he said contrary to media reports he was only invited down to have a look at training this week and played no role in coaching or even speaking to the group. Certainly on the basis of those comments I wouldn't think it was likely he will be part of the coaching group next year.
Anyway back on topic. Pijnaker shoulder injury. They can take a while to heal. I think if the All Whites were a meritocracy (we know they aren't due to Tommy Smith being a chance of making the squad) then this would put him even further behind Hughes in the CB pecking order. But won't be surprised to see him walk onto the plane even if he doesnt get back to his best/fittest, ahead of the likes of Isaac and Bill
The difference for him is he is a natural left footer CB, the others aren't.
Horrible season injuries wise will have him in doubt.
Horrible season injuries wise will have him in doubt.
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I dont watch many Auckland FC games, how has Nando been this season? I remember he was one of Danny Hay's favourites back at the start of the decade but don't recall him offering anything particularly worthwhile in the all whites jersey during that period.
Does he offer anything you wouldn't be getting from someone like Hughes or Stanger in that 5th choice CB spot.
Does he offer anything you wouldn't be getting from someone like Hughes or Stanger in that 5th choice CB spot.
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Rock Hopper wrote:
I dont watch many Auckland FC games, how has Nando been this season? I remember he was one of Danny Hay's favourites back at the start of the decade but don't recall him offering anything particularly worthwhile in the all whites jersey during that period.
Does he offer anything you wouldn't be getting from someone like Hughes or Stanger in that 5th choice CB spot.
He’s hardly played, 6 starts and 13 total appearances.
He can play a great cross-field switch on his left foot, but in my view he’s far too error prone to start for NZ.
If Stanger keeps starting in the SPFL and Hughes continues his progression, they’ll surpass him in the AWs pecking order, even when Boxall retires.
He can play a great cross-field switch on his left foot, but in my view he’s far too error prone to start for NZ.
If Stanger keeps starting in the SPFL and Hughes continues his progression, they’ll surpass him in the AWs pecking order, even when Boxall retires.
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Yipe it's that very handy long left foot switch that sets Nando apart from others. He's also a scoring menace at corners. He's scored from a few for Auckland.
Is he still noticeably error prone? I haven't watched AFC much at all this season. From memory he was at least partly at fault for the VUC's winning goal at Mt Smart, in their semi final last season.
Hopefully it's not a bad shoulder injury. Smith is still not playing for Braintree. Tuiloma and Stanger know they are in with a chance.
I doubt Bazeley will select any new caps, ruling out Hughes. Though Stanger is basically a new boy to the All Whites setup as well, difference being he's played before with all those guys who go back to Des's 2019 U20 WC side. Same thought process that might see OPP edge out Bayliss.
Is he still noticeably error prone? I haven't watched AFC much at all this season. From memory he was at least partly at fault for the VUC's winning goal at Mt Smart, in their semi final last season.
Hopefully it's not a bad shoulder injury. Smith is still not playing for Braintree. Tuiloma and Stanger know they are in with a chance.
I doubt Bazeley will select any new caps, ruling out Hughes. Though Stanger is basically a new boy to the All Whites setup as well, difference being he's played before with all those guys who go back to Des's 2019 U20 WC side. Same thought process that might see OPP edge out Bayliss.
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Nando was excellent last year and not error prone. Also scored 3 or 4 goals that year.
This year, too many injuries, but I think he makes Aucks a better team when he plays.
This year, too many injuries, but I think he makes Aucks a better team when he plays.
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Pijnaker's spot at the WC seriously in doubt.
Issac Hughes must now be in the reckoning. Tommy Smith is still injured.
So if Baze takes 3 CBs that might mean Tuiloma, Hughes & Stanger are competing for 2 spots. Subject to fitness Nado & Tommy.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/360963387/dislocated-shoulder-puts-auckland-fc-defender-nando-pijnaker-doubt-world-cup
Auckland FC defender Nando Pijnaker is in a race against the clock to be fit for the FIFA World Cup following confirmation he has a dislocated shoulder.
Issac Hughes must now be in the reckoning. Tommy Smith is still injured.
So if Baze takes 3 CBs that might mean Tuiloma, Hughes & Stanger are competing for 2 spots. Subject to fitness Nado & Tommy.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/360963387/dislocated-shoulder-puts-auckland-fc-defender-nando-pijnaker-doubt-world-cup
Auckland FC defender Nando Pijnaker is in a race against the clock to be fit for the FIFA World Cup following confirmation he has a dislocated shoulder.
The centre back sustained the painful injury to his right shoulder after jumping to contest a header during the first half of Auckland’s 2-2 draw with Melbourne Victory last weekend.
In a statement, Auckland FC confirmed the injury but said Pijnaker would seek further opinion from a specialist before providing a full update.
Dislocated shoulders typically take between 12 to 16 weeks to recover.
The All Whites’ World Cup opener against Iran is just nine weeks away, while Auckland have two regular season games left before finals.
Pijnaker was expected to be selected by All Whites coach Darren Bazeley as the fourth-choice centre back in his World Cup squad, behind Tyler Bindon, Michael Boxall and Finn Surman, the only three players to have taken the field in that position since the start of 2025.
His immediate absence is a further blow for Auckland who lost left back Francis de Vries to a six-week calf injury during the All Whites’ recent FIFA Series.
Pijnaker has endured a tough season injury-wise after playing a key role in Auckland’s successful first campaign.
Pre-season ankle surgery meant he didn’t feature until round four of the A-League Men season.
Another ankle injury kept him out for five matches in February and March.
The 27-year-old has played in just 13 of Auckland’s 24 matches so far this season after missing just one match last season and only completed 90 minutes in six of them.
“It’s not been a season to forget but it has been in terms of his injuries. He seems to have played a couple of very good games then he’s out for a little bit with another setback, so I feel for Nando,” Auckland assistant Danny Hay said after last weekend’s game.
“He’s got other things to look forward to after this season with the World Cup so hopefully this is not a setback that is going to hold him back too long.”
Pijnaker’s shoulder injury came on a weekend where there were two major pieces of good news for All Whites coach Bazeley.
The first was star English Premier League striker Chris Wood’s return to action with Nottingham Forest after knee surgery.
In his first matches since mid-October, Wood played 45 minutes in a Europa League quarterfinal draw with Porto and 25 in a Premier League draw with Aston Villa.
The second was midfielder Matt Garbett’s first outing since the end of January for Peterborough United in English League One.
The second was midfielder Matt Garbett’s first outing since the end of January for Peterborough United in English League One.
Garbett has been sidelined with a foot injury, but played 14 minutes as Peterborough lost 3-1 to Blackpool.
Forward Kosta Barbarouses also returned to action for Western Sydney Wanderers in their derby defeat to Sydney FC, after missing their previous match with an unspecified niggle.
Centre backs Michael Boxall (adductor) and Tommy Smith (hamstring), left backs Liberato Cacace and de Vries (both calves) and midfielder Sarpreet Singh (knee) remain sidelined.
Centre backs Michael Boxall (adductor) and Tommy Smith (hamstring), left backs Liberato Cacace and de Vries (both calves) and midfielder Sarpreet Singh (knee) remain sidelined.
There is a chance Singh could return for the Wellington Phoenix when they host the Wanderers in Christchurch this Saturday.
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So Payne has had an injury-riddled season. Elliot had a tight hammy this week and went off injured today.
Selecting Tuiloma, a centre back who has been getting better and fitter as the season has gone on and has been proven to be able to do an OK job at right back internationally, in the 26 is surely a sensible thing to do, to give more depth in our weakest starting XI position.
Too bad though, 36 year old Tommy Smith who has got almost no game time all season in the English 5th tier really wants to go and is apparently the world's best culture and leadership merchant, and is also Chris Wood's best mate, so sorry Bill, try again in 2030.
Selecting Tuiloma, a centre back who has been getting better and fitter as the season has gone on and has been proven to be able to do an OK job at right back internationally, in the 26 is surely a sensible thing to do, to give more depth in our weakest starting XI position.
Too bad though, 36 year old Tommy Smith who has got almost no game time all season in the English 5th tier really wants to go and is apparently the world's best culture and leadership merchant, and is also Chris Wood's best mate, so sorry Bill, try again in 2030.
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Posted this in Woods thread...
Great to see, but a couple interesting chats at footy on Saturday around how the team (All Whites) play better without him. With him on the field the team looks too him too much, as if he is the only option.
I don't see us playing the way we did against Chile with Wood in the team - Interesting conundrum, does our best player suit our best system?
Great to see, but a couple interesting chats at footy on Saturday around how the team (All Whites) play better without him. With him on the field the team looks too him too much, as if he is the only option.
I don't see us playing the way we did against Chile with Wood in the team - Interesting conundrum, does our best player suit our best system?
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Woud might be in the no 3 WC keeper box seat now. Wouldn't have thought that a few weeks ago, and certainly not back to when Corica dropped him and bought in Sail for that Glory game (same match Sail injured his knee).
Woud back starting for Auckland against CCM.
Meanwhile Sims dropped to the pine at GAIS, for the guy who was no 3 keeper at start of the season.
Plus Henry Gray not in Harrogate's squad, as they had a vital win on the weekend. Gray might be injured, but the Harrogate gaffer did make a whopping 7 changes from their previous match, and got a reaction.
Woud back starting for Auckland against CCM.
Meanwhile Sims dropped to the pine at GAIS, for the guy who was no 3 keeper at start of the season.
Plus Henry Gray not in Harrogate's squad, as they had a vital win on the weekend. Gray might be injured, but the Harrogate gaffer did make a whopping 7 changes from their previous match, and got a reaction.
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MetalLegNZ wrote:
Posted this in Woods thread...
Great to see, but a couple interesting chats at footy on Saturday around how the team (All Whites) play better without him. With him on the field the team looks too him too much, as if he is the only option.
I don't see us playing the way we did against Chile with Wood in the team - Interesting conundrum, does our best player suit our best system?
I think the answer is that we 'can' definitely be a better team with Wood on the field. Problem seems to be how we utilise him, as a central target striker its too easy for the opposition defence to mark him out of the game, and as a team we've only really used Woodsey as a target man. Get him dropping deeper in transition, holding up play, creating space for our fast and skillful wide players, and then get Wood popping up in the box rather than just wasteful balls played in to his head. Plus he's always a massive problem for oppositions at set pieces which will be important against stronger teams; you'd want him on the field whenever we can.
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+2
+2
Set pieces, and swift counters from midfield turnovers. Think Just's counter goal against Ivory Coast, and Marko's head tennis goal (Boxy header assist) against Ukraine.
I feel these are our best chances of scoring in June. With Wood, Surman, Boxall and Stamenic we have genuine dead ball threats in the likely run on 11.
FDV's deliveries and added aerial threats of Bindon (has a great leap) and Tuiloma possibly off the pine.
Singh, Just, McCowatt, Randell, Garbett and maybe Old (if not at LB).
Bazeley picks 2 or 3 of these guys to start alongside Wood. It might be those that are a best fit alongside the Woodsman, rather than who is in the best form.
CW is not really a hard pressing player when without the ball, so maybe McCowatt who does tend to work his arse off pressing, gets picked to start?
And do Bell, Stamenic and Thomas all start together?
If CW is fit, Waine and Barba will likely be bit players, or may not feature at all.
The win over Chile though morale boosting, I don't think means much given they went down to 10 men, and are now one of the weakest sides in Sth America.
I feel these are our best chances of scoring in June. With Wood, Surman, Boxall and Stamenic we have genuine dead ball threats in the likely run on 11.
FDV's deliveries and added aerial threats of Bindon (has a great leap) and Tuiloma possibly off the pine.
Singh, Just, McCowatt, Randell, Garbett and maybe Old (if not at LB).
Bazeley picks 2 or 3 of these guys to start alongside Wood. It might be those that are a best fit alongside the Woodsman, rather than who is in the best form.
CW is not really a hard pressing player when without the ball, so maybe McCowatt who does tend to work his arse off pressing, gets picked to start?
And do Bell, Stamenic and Thomas all start together?
If CW is fit, Waine and Barba will likely be bit players, or may not feature at all.
The win over Chile though morale boosting, I don't think means much given they went down to 10 men, and are now one of the weakest sides in Sth America.
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djtim3000 wrote:MetalLegNZ wrote:
Posted this in Woods thread...
Great to see, but a couple interesting chats at footy on Saturday around how the team (All Whites) play better without him. With him on the field the team looks too him too much, as if he is the only option.
I don't see us playing the way we did against Chile with Wood in the team - Interesting conundrum, does our best player suit our best system?
I think the answer is that we 'can' definitely be a better team with Wood on the field. Problem seems to be how we utilise him, as a central target striker its too easy for the opposition defence to mark him out of the game, and as a team we've only really used Woodsey as a target man. Get him dropping deeper in transition, holding up play, creating space for our fast and skillful wide players, and then get Wood popping up in the box rather than just wasteful balls played in to his head. Plus he's always a massive problem for oppositions at set pieces which will be important against stronger teams; you'd want him on the field whenever we can.
Sorry if this gets covered, but we have some troops for effective set pieces now. Both in delivery and getting on the end of the ball.
Consider: Bindon, Boxall, Surman, Stamenic, Tuiloma, (Hughes), (De Jong), (Tommy Smith), Waine, Garbett all as potential beneficiaries of a Wood decoy run.
And delivering Payne has been good, Bell, De Vries, Thomas, (Parker-Price), Singh, McCowatt, Just, Rufer.
And McCowatt, Singh, Just, Wood, Randall, Garbett, et al mopping up or crumbing in the box, if you will
Stamenic, Rufer, Thomas and Bell volleying or driving shots from the top of the box.
If we can win corners and free kicks, these are areas where we have a bit of control, and hopefully further results.
Consider: Bindon, Boxall, Surman, Stamenic, Tuiloma, (Hughes), (De Jong), (Tommy Smith), Waine, Garbett all as potential beneficiaries of a Wood decoy run.
And delivering Payne has been good, Bell, De Vries, Thomas, (Parker-Price), Singh, McCowatt, Just, Rufer.
And McCowatt, Singh, Just, Wood, Randall, Garbett, et al mopping up or crumbing in the box, if you will
Stamenic, Rufer, Thomas and Bell volleying or driving shots from the top of the box.
If we can win corners and free kicks, these are areas where we have a bit of control, and hopefully further results.
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martinb wrote:djtim3000 wrote:Sorry if this gets covered, but we have some troops for effective set pieces now. Both in delivery and getting on the end of the ball.MetalLegNZ wrote:
Posted this in Woods thread...
Great to see, but a couple interesting chats at footy on Saturday around how the team (All Whites) play better without him. With him on the field the team looks too him too much, as if he is the only option.
I don't see us playing the way we did against Chile with Wood in the team - Interesting conundrum, does our best player suit our best system?
I think the answer is that we 'can' definitely be a better team with Wood on the field. Problem seems to be how we utilise him, as a central target striker its too easy for the opposition defence to mark him out of the game, and as a team we've only really used Woodsey as a target man. Get him dropping deeper in transition, holding up play, creating space for our fast and skillful wide players, and then get Wood popping up in the box rather than just wasteful balls played in to his head. Plus he's always a massive problem for oppositions at set pieces which will be important against stronger teams; you'd want him on the field whenever we can.
Consider: Bindon, Boxall, Surman, Stamenic, Tuiloma, (Hughes), (De Jong), (Tommy Smith), Waine, Garbett all as potential beneficiaries of a Wood decoy run.
And delivering Payne has been good, Bell, De Vries, Thomas, (Parker-Price), Singh, McCowatt, Just, Rufer.
And McCowatt, Singh, Just, Wood, Randall, Garbett, et al mopping up or crumbing in the box, if you will
Stamenic, Rufer, Thomas and Bell volleying or driving shots from the top of the box.
If we can win corners and free kicks, these are areas where we have a bit of control, and hopefully further results.
We have more options for set pieces these days, but also the ability to score outside of free kicks and corners. Of the AW's last 10 goals against non-OFC opposition (going back to the 1:1 draw against USA), only half of them have come from dead ball situations.
Interestingly, of those 5 goals from open play, only one has occurred with Wood on the field - the one he scored against Australia at Mt Smart last year. Which might feed into the theory 'we play better without Wood'
Interestingly, of those 5 goals from open play, only one has occurred with Wood on the field - the one he scored against Australia at Mt Smart last year. Which might feed into the theory 'we play better without Wood'
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Will some of the AWs be assembling in NZ (Albany) pre the World Cup?
After this weekend, club seasons for Tuiloma, Rufer, Payne, Singh, Barba, Bindon, Stamenic, Garbett and Waine will be finished.
Same also WC contenders - McGarry, Roux, Tommy Smith, Tzanev and Henry Gray. Possibly also Cacace depending on how Wrexham go this weekend.
That's 10-15 players. You could have the Auckland FC AWs (Woud, Randall, FDV, Pijnaker and Elliot) popping in now and again. Rogerson & Howieson.
I see that the Nix are continuing to train for the next 3-4 weeks. Is that usual?
I just imagine that the Iranian and Egyptian national teams, made up heavily of domestic based players will go into camp weeks before the World Cup kicks off.
Looks like most European leagues finish weekend 16-17th May. Except EPL and Poland? weekend 23rd-24th.
We play Iran June 15th.
After this weekend, club seasons for Tuiloma, Rufer, Payne, Singh, Barba, Bindon, Stamenic, Garbett and Waine will be finished.
Same also WC contenders - McGarry, Roux, Tommy Smith, Tzanev and Henry Gray. Possibly also Cacace depending on how Wrexham go this weekend.
That's 10-15 players. You could have the Auckland FC AWs (Woud, Randall, FDV, Pijnaker and Elliot) popping in now and again. Rogerson & Howieson.
I see that the Nix are continuing to train for the next 3-4 weeks. Is that usual?
I just imagine that the Iranian and Egyptian national teams, made up heavily of domestic based players will go into camp weeks before the World Cup kicks off.
Looks like most European leagues finish weekend 16-17th May. Except EPL and Poland? weekend 23rd-24th.
We play Iran June 15th.
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Its actually good for the prospective AWs in the Nix to train with the club for another month. It will keep them in shape leading into the WC. I bet Baz would love to see them play a couple of friendlies so he can assess Singh.
After this weekend the AFC AWs will be free as well. Maybe they could come down and train with the Nix
After this weekend the AFC AWs will be free as well. Maybe they could come down and train with the Nix
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FiFA has just announced a significant increase in payments to participating teams. NZF will be awash with $$$.
Preparation grant for each country is now $USD 2.5 million, qualification payment is $USD 10 million and subsidies for team delegation costs will be $16 million
$10 million USD$ is around $NZD 17 million. This will probably be the biggest boost for NZ football ever.
Preparation grant for each country is now $USD 2.5 million, qualification payment is $USD 10 million and subsidies for team delegation costs will be $16 million
$10 million USD$ is around $NZD 17 million. This will probably be the biggest boost for NZ football ever.
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Endorsed by
As others have opined picking the potential WC starting 11, is now more interesting than the final 26 man squad
Based on current club form, and injury updates I'd go -
Paulsen
Payne, Surman, Boxall/Bindon, Cacace/Old
Bell, Thomas, Stamenic
McCowatt, Wood, Just
Hopefully Libby gets some mins in Wrexham big game this weekend, and then more mins in the promotion playoffs if Wrexham are top 6.
Then 6 weeks to build up his fitness before Iran June 15th.
Likewise we want Boxy starting at the WC. Sounds like he should return for Minnesota soon.
I'm less convinced that we need Singh also coming back from injury starting. The dream if more conservative triangle of Bell, Stamenic & Thomas for me.
Just and McCowatt are both in form. Randall on the other hand struggling a little at AFC currently.
Based on current club form, and injury updates I'd go -
Paulsen
Payne, Surman, Boxall/Bindon, Cacace/Old
Bell, Thomas, Stamenic
McCowatt, Wood, Just
Hopefully Libby gets some mins in Wrexham big game this weekend, and then more mins in the promotion playoffs if Wrexham are top 6.
Then 6 weeks to build up his fitness before Iran June 15th.
Likewise we want Boxy starting at the WC. Sounds like he should return for Minnesota soon.
I'm less convinced that we need Singh also coming back from injury starting. The dream if more conservative triangle of Bell, Stamenic & Thomas for me.
Just and McCowatt are both in form. Randall on the other hand struggling a little at AFC currently.
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coochiee wrote:
Based on current club form, and injury updates I'd go -
Paulsen
Payne, Surman, Boxall/Bindon, Cacace/Old
Bell, Thomas, Stamenic
McCowatt, Wood, Just
Pretty confident this is the starting XI based on form. Barring fitness or injuries, I can't see much argument for anyone starting ahead of these players - (edit - aside from deciding between two #1 Goalkeepers)
The question I'd have is around the formation - I'm sure Baze will stick with Wood up front, but I'd like to see us try a 4-4-2 or something similar to the Chile game with McCowatt and Wood.
The question I'd have is around the formation - I'm sure Baze will stick with Wood up front, but I'd like to see us try a 4-4-2 or something similar to the Chile game with McCowatt and Wood.
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Based on current club form, Payne isn’t in.
He had an ok game last time out for the All Whites but this year he has been poor.
I see him as our weakest link and reckon our opponents will see that.
He had an ok game last time out for the All Whites but this year he has been poor.
I see him as our weakest link and reckon our opponents will see that.
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He hasn’t been flash but the options are limited.
I still think that rather then an Elliot or Billy T being skinned, that Bindon has the skills and nous to do a defensive job there.
I still think that rather then an Elliot or Billy T being skinned, that Bindon has the skills and nous to do a defensive job there.
Auckland will rise once more
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hepatitis wrote:
Based on current club form, Payne isn’t in.
He had an ok game last time out for the All Whites but this year he has been poor.
I see him as our weakest link and reckon our opponents will see that.
Who starts ahead of him?
Payne looked very good against Chile, plus the Nix v WSW match (2 assists) when the Nix still had something to play for.
It shouldn't matter being a pro footballer, but you feel with Tim P if his motivation is not 100% on, he's gonna have a poor game. No one is playing at a World Cup without being 100% up for it.
Edit - big match experience also plays a part. Payne has played in plenty of large stadiums with the AWs, and been around the team a long time now. Played many games with the Woodsman who will be his crossing target. Elliot is younger hasn't been around the AWs that long, and is at more risk of being overawed facing up to an onrushing Salah, De Bruyne or whoever on the biggest stage.
Payne looked very good against Chile, plus the Nix v WSW match (2 assists) when the Nix still had something to play for.
It shouldn't matter being a pro footballer, but you feel with Tim P if his motivation is not 100% on, he's gonna have a poor game. No one is playing at a World Cup without being 100% up for it.
Edit - big match experience also plays a part. Payne has played in plenty of large stadiums with the AWs, and been around the team a long time now. Played many games with the Woodsman who will be his crossing target. Elliot is younger hasn't been around the AWs that long, and is at more risk of being overawed facing up to an onrushing Salah, De Bruyne or whoever on the biggest stage.
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Endorsed by
I don't think we are going to be seeing a change in shape, other than the classic throwing on a third CB in an attempt to close out a game. Baze has been consistent throughout that we are going to be sticking to our system.
I hope we use the Bell, Stamenic & Thomas midfield 3 vs Iran but we essentially have never seen it and so it needs to click in our first warmup game to be stuck with.
McCowatt on paper starts but he hasn't had a good game for the All Whites in years. I'd personally prefer Old join Just & Wood up front, if Cacace is fit.
I hope we use the Bell, Stamenic & Thomas midfield 3 vs Iran but we essentially have never seen it and so it needs to click in our first warmup game to be stuck with.
McCowatt on paper starts but he hasn't had a good game for the All Whites in years. I'd personally prefer Old join Just & Wood up front, if Cacace is fit.
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McCowatt was good against the Socceroos in Canberra. Played a clever pass to setup Wood who should have done better with his shot.
I wonder if McC suits playing with the Woodsman. Unflashy McCowatt presses hard off the ball, something Wood himself doesn't do a lot of.
That will likely be the AWs game at the WC. Aim for at least 40-50% possession with a strong midfield trio, press hard without the ball, and transition fast when creating turnover opportunities. Have some well practiced dead ball setups.
Look how Wood scored at Sunderland last week, when he blocked a Black Cats pass out and Gibbs-White gave it back to him to finish.
OId hasn't done much as an attacker for the AWs. His best game for the national team was likely the last one against Chile at LB. As a winger with St Etienne he was in & out (mostly out) of the team. His final pass execution and general option taking still a work on. The experienced SE coach (who sees him day in day out at training) suggests his highest league ceiling will now likely be as a LB.
I wonder if McC suits playing with the Woodsman. Unflashy McCowatt presses hard off the ball, something Wood himself doesn't do a lot of.
That will likely be the AWs game at the WC. Aim for at least 40-50% possession with a strong midfield trio, press hard without the ball, and transition fast when creating turnover opportunities. Have some well practiced dead ball setups.
Look how Wood scored at Sunderland last week, when he blocked a Black Cats pass out and Gibbs-White gave it back to him to finish.
OId hasn't done much as an attacker for the AWs. His best game for the national team was likely the last one against Chile at LB. As a winger with St Etienne he was in & out (mostly out) of the team. His final pass execution and general option taking still a work on. The experienced SE coach (who sees him day in day out at training) suggests his highest league ceiling will now likely be as a LB.
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We need goal scoring options playing off the space created by Wood, as he will be mobbed by defenders. Based on form, that's Just and McCowatt. I would consider Jesse Randall, but he's fallen off towards the end of this season (injury related...?) I think he's also pacier option to bring on toward the end of the game.
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McCowatt is not a wide player now. He plays more centrally at club level.
I would almost call him a defensive 10 in the sense his job is to put a lot pressure on the opposition to win the ball and start quick counters higher up.
His goals are generally from turnovers and when they're not, it's when hes picking the ball up in the middle of the park or making a run through the center.
Great that he is scoring goals, but you need to look at what type they are and how they're scored.
I would almost call him a defensive 10 in the sense his job is to put a lot pressure on the opposition to win the ball and start quick counters higher up.
His goals are generally from turnovers and when they're not, it's when hes picking the ball up in the middle of the park or making a run through the center.
Great that he is scoring goals, but you need to look at what type they are and how they're scored.
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Endorsed by
MetalLegNZ wrote:
McCowatt is not a wide player now. He plays more centrally at club level.
I would almost call him a defensive 10 in the sense his job is to put a lot pressure on the opposition to win the ball and start quick counters higher up.
His goals are generally from turnovers and when they're not, it's when hes picking the ball up in the middle of the park or making a run through the center.
Great that he is scoring goals, but you need to look at what type they are and how they're scored.
Absolutely- Just, Randall, McCowatt, Singh… even Woodsy…
We need to look further than the stats and see why they’re succeeding and imitate that for the AWs if possible.
We need to look further than the stats and see why they’re succeeding and imitate that for the AWs if possible.
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coochiee wrote:
As others have opined picking the potential WC starting 11, is now more interesting than the final 26 man squad
Based on current club form, and injury updates I'd go -
Paulsen
Payne, Surman, Boxall/Bindon, Cacace/Old
Bell, Thomas, Stamenic
McCowatt, Wood, Just
Hopefully Libby gets some mins in Wrexham big game this weekend, and then more mins in the promotion playoffs if Wrexham are top 6.
Then 6 weeks to build up his fitness before Iran June 15th.
Likewise we want Boxy starting at the WC. Sounds like he should return for Minnesota soon.
I'm less convinced that we need Singh also coming back from injury starting. The dream if more conservative triangle of Bell, Stamenic & Thomas for me.
Just and McCowatt are both in form. Randall on the other hand struggling a little at AFC currently.
Paulsen
Roux Surman Bindon McGarry
Bell Stamenic
Just McCowatt Cacace
Wood
Bench:
Crocombe, Gray, Payne, Old, Boxall, Pijnaker, Stanger, Thomas, OPP, Garbett, Singh, Rogerson, Randall, Waine, Kosta
Roux Surman Bindon McGarry
Bell Stamenic
Just McCowatt Cacace
Wood
Bench:
Crocombe, Gray, Payne, Old, Boxall, Pijnaker, Stanger, Thomas, OPP, Garbett, Singh, Rogerson, Randall, Waine, Kosta
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Sims (dropped by GAIS) and Gray (injured?) not playing their most recent last few club matches at precisely the wrong time. Tzanev still in selection contention it seems.
I guess the no 3 GK can be a unique type selection, like who's the best uncomplaining trainer, happy to be no 3, and perhaps best experienced at providing some little coaching tips watching on. Seems that Tzanev went to Huddersfield to almost be a semi GK coach, and he did play their last 1.5 matches in League One.
Woud as we know a bit of an odd fellow.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/360969774/all-whites-fifa-world-cup-warm-fixtures-confirmed
Coach Darren Bazeley is expected to name his 26-man squad next week, with the specific timing set to be confirmed in the near future.
I guess the no 3 GK can be a unique type selection, like who's the best uncomplaining trainer, happy to be no 3, and perhaps best experienced at providing some little coaching tips watching on. Seems that Tzanev went to Huddersfield to almost be a semi GK coach, and he did play their last 1.5 matches in League One.
Woud as we know a bit of an odd fellow.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/360969774/all-whites-fifa-world-cup-warm-fixtures-confirmed
Coach Darren Bazeley is expected to name his 26-man squad next week, with the specific timing set to be confirmed in the near future.
There is not a great deal of suspense around the make-up of the All Whites’ squad, with New Zealand’s professional player pool still one of the smallest in the world and the coach’s selections across the 10 matches since they qualified remaining consistent.
Returns to fitness for key figures Chris Wood, Liberato Cacace, Michael Boxall, Matt Garbett and Nando Pijnaker in the last few weeks have eased worries on that front. Francis de Vries should join them in one of Auckland FC’s semifinal fixtures this weekend or next.
Returns to fitness for key figures Chris Wood, Liberato Cacace, Michael Boxall, Matt Garbett and Nando Pijnaker in the last few weeks have eased worries on that front. Francis de Vries should join them in one of Auckland FC’s semifinal fixtures this weekend or next.
Several of those who look certain to be named have completed their club seasons, including Tim Payne, Alex Rufer and Sarpreet Singh at the Wellington Phoenix.
Wood, Boxall, Joe Bell, Alex Paulsen and Finn Surman will be in action right up until May 24, the day before World Cup-bound players have to be released by their clubs.
Barring a shock omission, there would appear to be three areas where Bazeley and his assistant coaches – Tony Readings, Simon Elliott and Paul Gothard – have decisions to make.
One will be the third-choice goalkeeper behind Max Crocombe and Paulsen, where Gothard will hold plenty of sway and the decision is likely to be between Nik Tzanev and Michael Woud.
A call between Lachlan Bayliss and Owen Parker-Price to provide depth in midfield also beckons, as does one between Bill Tuiloma and Tommy Smith to provide depth in defence.
Smith has not taken the field for the All Whites since September 2024, but Bazeley values his leadership and appears to be prepared to pick him even though he has spent the past season playing for relegated Braintree Town in the English fifth-tier.
Both midfielders could get the nod instead of an extra defender, or an extra forward could be taken instead – with Andre de Jong and Logan Rogerson at the head of the pack if that’s the way they go.
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Rusty Dunks wrote:coochiee wrote:Paulsen
As others have opined picking the potential WC starting 11, is now more interesting than the final 26 man squad
Based on current club form, and injury updates I'd go -
Paulsen
Payne, Surman, Boxall/Bindon, Cacace/Old
Bell, Thomas, Stamenic
McCowatt, Wood, Just
Hopefully Libby gets some mins in Wrexham big game this weekend, and then more mins in the promotion playoffs if Wrexham are top 6.
Then 6 weeks to build up his fitness before Iran June 15th.
Likewise we want Boxy starting at the WC. Sounds like he should return for Minnesota soon.
I'm less convinced that we need Singh also coming back from injury starting. The dream if more conservative triangle of Bell, Stamenic & Thomas for me.
Just and McCowatt are both in form. Randall on the other hand struggling a little at AFC currently.
Roux Surman Bindon McGarry
Bell Stamenic
Just McCowatt Cacace
Wood
Bench:
Crocombe, Gray, Payne, Old, Boxall, Pijnaker, Stanger, Thomas, OPP, Garbett, Singh, Rogerson, Randall, Waine, Kosta
Roux over Payne? - you're having a laugh right? It never ceases to amaze me how quickly people forget how well Payne has done as an advancing RB in the white shirt. One rough performance and you get written off.
Queenslander 3x a year.
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While the shortage of minutes and match fitness for some will be a concern, with the likes of Cacere, De Vries, Nando, Singh, Boxall etc, the squad has got quite lucky in that basically the entire potential squad is now fit/available for selection.
A very good place for the coach to be.
A very good place for the coach to be.
Auckland will rise once more
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No way Smith should be picked ahead of Tuiloma as suggested. Smith can be hired to go as a staff member, the amount teams can carry with them is probably as high as players!!
I think Woud has the inside line of the third spot. Is playing regularly and doing fine. Tzanev hasn't played for how long? Odd though that it is out of those two. I would have thought Gray if not injured would be an option. Would Woud help or hinder the camp, having odd balls can help bring levity... and he certainly doesn't lack confidence - having someone talking shit, but for you, an interesting option. No doubt the sports pyschologist can look into that one.
Not long to go now!!
I think Woud has the inside line of the third spot. Is playing regularly and doing fine. Tzanev hasn't played for how long? Odd though that it is out of those two. I would have thought Gray if not injured would be an option. Would Woud help or hinder the camp, having odd balls can help bring levity... and he certainly doesn't lack confidence - having someone talking shit, but for you, an interesting option. No doubt the sports pyschologist can look into that one.
Not long to go now!!
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Smith can be hired to go as a staff member, the amount teams can carry with them is probably as high as players!!
What's Baze's logic for picking him as a squad player who's very unlikely to play vs a staff member/waterboy/non-squad member, if his value is sharing his experience?
It's baffling to me. Would love to hear someone in the media question him on that.
It's baffling to me. Would love to hear someone in the media question him on that.
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Stuff article now updated
The All Whites' first FIFA World Cup squad in 16 years will be named in Auckland next Thursday morning, a fortnight before the team assembles in Florida to begin their final preparations.
The All Whites' first FIFA World Cup squad in 16 years will be named in Auckland next Thursday morning, a fortnight before the team assembles in Florida to begin their final preparations.
Coach Darren Bazeley will reveal his chosen 26 for the tournament in North America at Eden Park at 11am on May 14.
New Zealand will be among the first countries that confirm their squads for the tournament that starts in mid-June.
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Who would miss out if we took both Parker-Price and Bayliss?
I feel like we absolutely have to take Parker-Price considering where he’s playing and the respect he’s getting.
And Bayliss has had a great season. Could he play RB? Or at least cover it? But then he’s not keeping Singh out. Or Thomas or Stamenic!
Compare to us taking a crocked Vicelich and Andy Barron in 2010 for our 2nd and 3rd midfield spots. Oh and Christie.
We might have less depth than others, but it feels like we are still doing much better than our own previous high water marks.
I feel like we absolutely have to take Parker-Price considering where he’s playing and the respect he’s getting.
And Bayliss has had a great season. Could he play RB? Or at least cover it? But then he’s not keeping Singh out. Or Thomas or Stamenic!
Compare to us taking a crocked Vicelich and Andy Barron in 2010 for our 2nd and 3rd midfield spots. Oh and Christie.
We might have less depth than others, but it feels like we are still doing much better than our own previous high water marks.
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durandurante wrote:martinb wrote:We have more options for set pieces these days, but also the ability to score outside of free kicks and corners. Of the AW's last 10 goals against non-OFC opposition (going back to the 1:1 draw against USA), only half of them have come from dead ball situations.djtim3000 wrote:Sorry if this gets covered, but we have some troops for effective set pieces now. Both in delivery and getting on the end of the ball.MetalLegNZ wrote:
Posted this in Woods thread...
Great to see, but a couple interesting chats at footy on Saturday around how the team (All Whites) play better without him. With him on the field the team looks too him too much, as if he is the only option.
I don't see us playing the way we did against Chile with Wood in the team - Interesting conundrum, does our best player suit our best system?
I think the answer is that we 'can' definitely be a better team with Wood on the field. Problem seems to be how we utilise him, as a central target striker its too easy for the opposition defence to mark him out of the game, and as a team we've only really used Woodsey as a target man. Get him dropping deeper in transition, holding up play, creating space for our fast and skillful wide players, and then get Wood popping up in the box rather than just wasteful balls played in to his head. Plus he's always a massive problem for oppositions at set pieces which will be important against stronger teams; you'd want him on the field whenever we can.
Consider: Bindon, Boxall, Surman, Stamenic, Tuiloma, (Hughes), (De Jong), (Tommy Smith), Waine, Garbett all as potential beneficiaries of a Wood decoy run.
And delivering Payne has been good, Bell, De Vries, Thomas, (Parker-Price), Singh, McCowatt, Just, Rufer.
And McCowatt, Singh, Just, Wood, Randall, Garbett, et al mopping up or crumbing in the box, if you will
Stamenic, Rufer, Thomas and Bell volleying or driving shots from the top of the box.
If we can win corners and free kicks, these are areas where we have a bit of control, and hopefully further results.
Interestingly, of those 5 goals from open play, only one has occurred with Wood on the field - the one he scored against Australia at Mt Smart last year. Which might feed into the theory 'we play better without Wood'
I’ve been thinking about this. And Buffy saying we don’t have Morgan Gibbs-White, which is true.
But perhaps we are a little restricted in how we attack with Wood on the field? We’re happy to sling low percentage crosses, more than attempt one touch etc etc?
Or we’ve been waiting for a settled injury free 11 to try to attempt something more creative?
But perhaps we are a little restricted in how we attack with Wood on the field? We’re happy to sling low percentage crosses, more than attempt one touch etc etc?
Or we’ve been waiting for a settled injury free 11 to try to attempt something more creative?
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martinb wrote:
Who would miss out if we took both Parker-Price and Bayliss?
I feel like we absolutely have to take Parker-Price considering where he’s playing and the respect he’s getting.
And Bayliss has had a great season. Could he play RB? Or at least cover it? But then he’s not keeping Singh out. Or Thomas or Stamenic!
Compare to us taking a crocked Vicelich and Andy Barron in 2010 for our 2nd and 3rd midfield spots. Oh and Christie.
We might have less depth than others, but it feels like we are still doing much better than our own previous high water marks.
AV says if both OPP & Bayliss get picked the extra defender - Tuiloma or Smith - drops out. But given Boxall & Pijnaker have had their own recent injury issues, the extra 5th CB cover is needed, not the extra midfielder.
Personally I think utility Tuiloma has to be picked. Payne is injury prone, and even if fit won't be good for 90 mins. If we are chasing a goal I'd rather bring on Billy T, with his aerial threat from dead balls, plus he's also a decent long range passer.
If we are seeking to be more defensive late in the game then maybe the more mobile Elliot comes on, but really Callan is only going to be picked for the WC due to a total lack of other options. I have little faith Elliot is going to help unlock Iran, Egypt or Belgium in the 95th min.
Personally I think utility Tuiloma has to be picked. Payne is injury prone, and even if fit won't be good for 90 mins. If we are chasing a goal I'd rather bring on Billy T, with his aerial threat from dead balls, plus he's also a decent long range passer.
If we are seeking to be more defensive late in the game then maybe the more mobile Elliot comes on, but really Callan is only going to be picked for the WC due to a total lack of other options. I have little faith Elliot is going to help unlock Iran, Egypt or Belgium in the 95th min.
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