Regardless of what the message was supposed to be Gareth has clearly lost control of what the media is saying, its not just the NZ media as well its the same in Australia. Coming out with more controversial statements is just adding fuel to the fire and increasing the misunderstandings.
The Phoenix need to make considered press releases until this has gone away and make very clear what is happening. Maybe make a formal press release. We are already a laughing stock, no need to make things worse with these rash interviews.
What is happening is actually considered and intelligent but the press and the misunderstandings propagated by them makes it seem like a complete shambles. Probably there is nothing that can be done to rectify this situation.